Re-Queening a hive with an imported Queen

Introducing a new queen to a hive can be an excellent management technique to assist in controlling the spread of mites in a colony, and in building genetic diversity in an apiary.

Why an imported queen? There are many reasons for importing queen bee stock from outside our local geographical area. From seasonal breeding challenges and lack of local supply, to the urgency of building and strengthening our local colonies coming out of winter.

Imported stock can supply northern genetic queens to local beekeepers before domestic queens are available, enabling beekeepers to get a quick start in spring. This assists in boosting apiary productivity and profitability. Imports are permitted from countries whose queens genetic traits will ensure survival in our harsher northern climates.

It is important that imported queens are sourced and bred in climates similar or equal to our own. When considering an imported queen, we would choose the traits we desire in our apiary that will enhance productivity and provide the results we are looking for to improve survivability and performance in our hives. These traits can range from gentleness, mite resistance, strong overwintering ability, production of honey, propolis and pollen, less tendency to swarm, early buildup and other similar desirable traits.

Imported queens provide a bridge until local queens are available. Local bees are specifically bred for their traits such as overwintering ability, honey production, mite resistance, brood disease, and to reproduce queens from local genetic stock. They are bred from stock that have performed well in our local geographic areas and have proven abilities to overcome stressors unique to our climate and environment encouraging increased rates of survivability and productivity.