How much is a package of bees?

between $80-$125
A package of bees usually costs between $80-$125 depending on the breeder. Orders for packages should be placed as soon as possible (usually in January) for delivery some time in the Spring. Purchasers will be given a date for pick-up or packages can be shipped.

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Do you need a permit to keep bees in California?

The law states: Every California and out-of-state beekeeper who moves bees into the state or comes into possession of an apiary must register with the appropriate County Agricultural Commissioner.

When should you buy package bees?

It is best to order your bees in the winter for shipment in March through May. Sometimes package bees sell out, so avoid problems by ordering early. Find out more about some of the best online bee suppliers who will ship bees to you; many also have bees available for pickup.

How do I order a package of bees?

Buying Bees

Package Bees: To order a package of bees, contact a local beekeeper supply or local beekeeping association. Most packages will contain a queen, multiple workers, and a feeder filled with sugar syrup.
Nucleus Hive: You can also order a nucleus hive. A nucleus (commonly called a “nuc”) is a half-size colony.

How much is a queen bee worth?

Queen Bees on the Market Online, you can expect to pay between $25 and $40 (not including any shipping charges) for a good quality, healthy, productive, and well-bred queen bee.

Is it legal to have a beehive in your backyard in California?

California law requires beekeepers to register bees. BeeWhere is a real-time mapping system where users can mark hives with a simple pin drop in the field.

Can I have a beehive in my backyard California?

The Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously on Wednesday to allow residents to keep beehives in their backyards.

Are nucs or packages better?

Package Bees are more economical, less prone to spread pests or diseases (because no honeycomb is involved), and are more readily available. They are slower to build up a working population and have to go through the queen acceptance procedure. Nucs – Nuc colonies are more expensive than packages of bees.

When can you buy bees in California?

The best time to begin keeping bees is in the spring; when flowers are blooming, nectar is flowing, and pollen is gathered. Now is the time to prepare the hive and order your bees. Honey bees are in short supply; we suggest you order them now.

How many bees are in a 3 pound package?

10,000 bees
It is used to transport bees to a new hive. Packages are sold by the pound. There are roughly 3500 bees per pound so a three pound package contains around 10,000 bees.

What is the difference between a nuc and a package?

How do I become a beekeeper in California?

To Work In An Apiary Apprentice Assistants Must:

Complete the application at the bottom of this page and register for the program.
Review the Study Guide and pass an online written test with an 80%
Complete this online beekeeping course (30 mins)
Pass a practical test (20 min.)
Pass the annual safety class with an 80%

How much money can you make from a beehive?

It depends on your location, but it’s safe to say that you can charge $10 per pound. That puts you at a profit of $600 per beehive, per year.

How much land do I need for bees?

Each hive takes up about 2.5 square feet and should have a radius of space around it of at least five feet. Most beekeepers have between one and four hives. Remember, beehives are not set-and-forget.

What are the disadvantages of purchasing a nuc over a package?

DISADVANTAGES Of A Nucleus Hive

Not always available and usually requires beekeeping contacts to find them.
Often available later in the spring than package bees are.
State laws may prevent transport across state lines.
More expensive than packages.
Beekeeper may need to exchanging boxes, frames and foundation with seller.

Should I start with nuc or package bees?

When you get a package of bees, you get bees with nothing more than the stripes on their backs! So if you get a package of bees the main advantage is, you’ll get them sooner than you would a nuc which is great for those of you who are simply ready to burst because you’ve been waiting all winter long as it is.