Bees: Buy Live

: You can purchase a single mated queen to replace a lost one or introduce new genetics. 2. Breed Characteristics

Selecting the right format is the first step in starting your hive: buy live bees

: This is the most economical entry point. It typically consists of a screened box containing roughly 3 lbs of loose worker bees and a separately caged, mated queen. Beginners should note that these bees must build their own wax comb from scratch. : You can purchase a single mated queen

: Often preferred for beginners, a "nuc" is a miniature, established hive with 4–5 frames already containing brood (baby bees), honey, and a queen who is already integrated and laying eggs. This gives the colony a much faster start than a package. a "nuc" is a miniature