This is the only bee option for 2026. Nucs will not be sold this year.
If you are a new beekeeper who also needs equipment, I install package bees into a brand-new polystyrene hive. Bees go on 5 frames of drawn comb and 5 undrawn, and the queen is released when she is ready. Your colony is then cared for and inspected for the important first couple of weeks — I make sure the queen is laying well and the bees are healthy and growing before pickup.
Hives are normally ready the first weekend of June near Ardrossan, Alberta. The second box is included and usually needed soon after pickup. Complete double-deep packages with bees installed start at $630 and include painting of all equipment. See every option on Hive Packages.
Option 2 · not offered in 2026
Just the bees (nucs)
I will not be selling nucs in 2026.
In other years I also sell 5-frame nucs for beekeepers who already have equipment. Nucs are made from overwintered bees — five drawn frames with bees and brood of all ages plus a new queen. They sell for $320 each with a reusable wood nuc box (keep it, or return for a $20 refund). Nucs sell out fast and are normally ready the first weekend of June near Ardrossan.
Queens, inspections & pickup
We use same-year queens from reputable breeders. Colonies are inspected regularly by the Alberta government. Deposits may be requested. Pickup is near Ardrossan — you are welcome to inspect before or during pickup. Bees are locked up the night before, so plan to arrive early in the day.
Contact me to discuss a future purchase, or message the group on
Facebook.
This video shows what a healthy nuc colony should look like:
