which subspecies of queen

[tlynn]

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

[Robo]

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..