honey Bees

[archerobx]

I am looking into getting a hive or two and was wondering if anyone recommened any reading material or could help me decide on the equipment.
thanks
Ryan

 

[backyardfarmer83]

I can't offer any reading material, but I can tell you that you should go with the Italian honey bee. They are the most docile.... very few stings (if any) when handling them and they are not very prone to swarming. Though you should probably have an extra hive close by that you keep empty for just such an occasion. There is plenty of info on the internet as well.

Just make sure you or any family member is not allergic and that you keep the hives well away from citylife. Most neighbors would be too afraid of getting stung and no amount of honey could make up for that.

 

[JAPJRGIRL21]

We have Italiens as well. They are extremely docile. As far as reading material, the one we like best is "The Backyard Beekeeper" by Kim Flottum. You might consider trying Beemaster.com as well. It is a site very similar to this one. Enjoy your bees!!

 

[archerobx]

thank you both

 

[NanaKat]

A good book for beginners is First Lessons in Beekeeping by C. P. Dadant. Published by Dadant and Sons, Hamilton Ill. There have been several printings. Mine was 1997. The ISBN Number is 0 915698-02-1.
The book has info on bees, bee-keeping, equipment, housing, feeding, swarms, harvesting, etc.