What exactly is a bee package?
A bee package refers to specially designed containers intended for the safe and secure transportation of bees. These packages are typically sold based on the weight of the bees, with approximately 3,000 to 5,000 bees per pound. The majority of bee packages are available in sizes ranging from two to five pounds and typically include a queen bee, unless otherwise specified.
What gear should I prepare before getting started?
Before your package bees arrive, it's essential to ensure you have all the necessary equipment on hand. The minimum equipment needed includes a hive stand, a bottom board, a single deep hive body equipped with ten frames with foundation, inner cover, outer cover along with an entrance reducer and a feeder already set up. The Colony sells a complete hive set up to make purchasing all you will need for beekeeping quick and easy.
Make certain that you've arranged these components at the chosen location where you intend to keep your hive. To facilitate the hive setup process, you may also find it beneficial to have some additional items readily available, such as a spray bottle filled with pre-mixed sugar water (at a 1:1 ratio), a hive tool, and a pointed instrument like a wood screw to assist in removing the cork from the queen cage.
Package Components
Spraying package bees with sugar water
Typically, bee packages consist of a wooden frame with a top and bottom, featuring wire screens on the sides. The wooden lid of the package holds a tin can feeder filled with sugar water, providing sustenance for the bees during transit. Inside the package, you'll also discover a queen cage, which can be made of wood or plastic. This cage serves the important purpose of safely isolating the queen from the worker bees while they acclimate to her scent.
When is the ideal time to place an order for package bees?
Each pound of bees amounts to approximately 3,500 bees, and these packages come with a freshly mated queen for establishing new colonies. You can order a package with or without a marked queen, having a marked queen can assist you in locating your queen during your inspections. To ensure that your packages arrive in a timely manner for early spring (typically in April), it is advisable to place your order for packages early. You can typically begin ordering your packages beginning at the end of October or beginning of November of each year.
What is the bee count in a fresh package?
A new package comprises a compact box brimming with approximately 10,000 bees, which roughly equates to 3 pounds in weight. Additionally, each package includes a mated queen.
Where can I buy 2024 bee packages?
You have the exciting opportunity to purchase bee packages for the year 2024 from the website thecolonyma.com. These bee packages are an excellent choice for beekeepers, whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your apiary.
The website offers a convenient platform to explore and select the bee packages that best suit your needs. These packages typically come with a substantial number of bees, including a mated queen and essential supplies like sugar syrup to ensure the well-being of the bees during transit.
By obtaining bee packages from New England Beekeeping, you are taking a significant step towards fostering a thriving bee colony, contributing to pollination efforts, and enjoying the many benefits of beekeeping. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or a novice enthusiast, this source provides a valuable opportunity to acquire the bee packages you need for a successful and rewarding beekeeping venture in 2024.
