Purchase from reputable queen breeders

Purchasing queens from reputable queen breeders is a primary method for beekeepers to introduce desirable genetics into their apiaries. Queen breeders specialize in selecting and breeding queens for specific traits, such as disease resistance (e.g., Varroa mite resistance), hygienic behavior, gentleness, and high honey production. Reputable breeders maintain breeding programs and often provide information on queen lineage and performance. Purchasing from breeders ensures a higher likelihood of acquiring queens with improved genetic stock compared to relying on naturally mated queens. Breeder queens are typically more expensive than locally sourced queens.