We have our first hive going strong and the general consensus from all I have read is to have at least 2 hives. I am ordering another hive body and supers and figure I can split my colony soon (I think). They are bearding all over the front of the hive at night and seem packed throughout when I inspect. There are whole frames of brood (pupae). I don't know whether my bees are Italians, Carniolans, etc. Does this matter when I choose a type of queen? If so, is there a way to tell what they are? Also should I order one from far away to have different genetic stock?
Thanks!
Tracy
It doesn't matter what type of queen you get. In fact most package bees that are sold as anything other than Italians are usually Italian works with a different queen (ie. Russian, Carniolan, etc). I personally believe that local acclimatized bees are best. I would try to get something from within your state.
rob..