Beekeeping Made Easy

                      Bees  -- Full Hive

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  The absolute easy way to begin beekeeping is to buy an established hive.  One needs to be careful in this, however.    

Review the parts of a hive so that you have a good idea of what should be included in a hive of bees.

• When buying any hive of bees it is important not to buy someone else's problem. Check the various bee magazines for Classified Ads to get an idea of what others are asking for similar  bee equipment.  Major bee magazines are Bee Culture at www.beeculture.com  and The American Bee Journal at www.dadant.com .

  Things you should do:  (Check list)

  • Have the hive of bees inspected by a competent beekeeper.  (This should be preferably a state bee inspector if you have that service).
  • Make sure the equipment is sound.   You can use a sharp point to find soft spots in hive bodies, bottom boards, etc.
  • Examine the condition of frames and condition of comb.  Be sure frames  can be removed without breaking.   
  • Have the competent beekeeper take a mite sample using one of the approved mite detection methods.
  • Look for any sign of disease -- small white pellets looking like chalk on the landing board -- this is chalk brood but not serious; however, if a  glue like substance in cells with a coffee color, and rotten smell are present --  be prepared to walk away from the hive and do not proceed with the purchase.   Even a free hive of bees is not going to free if these conditions exist.   If American foulbrood exist, your state may require you to burn the hive or worse yet, quarantine your bee yard.
  • Establish the price you are willing to pay before visiting the bee hive.   Compare what the cost is compared to new equipment and a package of bees.  Why pay more for older equipment!  I have been made aware of several situations when a new beekeeper was taken -- repeat -- taken to the cleaners by an unscrupulous beekeeper.   Keep in mind that boxes with holes, home made equipment, and generally poor condition are worth very little. 
  • Find out how you are going to transport the hive.  Will the seller transport it for you to your location?  That is worth something!
  • Get a bill of sale and inspection certificate if available in your state.  Some states such as Ohio require an inspection report before a hive is sold.
  • Know where you are going to put the hive after you get it!  Check with your spouse before you buy!   
  • Check the good neighbor guidelines before you buy.  Your neighbors may not take too kindly to your new hobby.