Understanding Your Local Swarming Process

Introduction Below is a summary of the recent research on swarming and topics surrounding its timing and identification.  Research articles are always listed at the bottom of the blog for further details.  Just below are two links which contain information gleaned from the research and organized into an approximate execution timeline.  Consider downloading these two […]

Solstice Splits

Introduction No matter the style of hive or experience as a beekeeper you likely have heard about a nuc or nucleus colony.  Often, it’s regarding purchasing honeybees that come with 4-5 frames of drawn-out comb, honey, brood, worker bees and a queen.  These can range from $180 to $200 plus to purchase.  What if you […]

Genetic Diversity Matters

Tree Cavity

History The honeybee originated in the Old World, where it diverged into more than two dozen recognized subspecies.  Initial introduction of the honeybee (subspecies A. m. mellifera) to North America occurred in the 17th century and records indicate that another seven subspecies were introduced by 1922, when further importations were restricted. With the notable exception […]