Hives and Types of Bees
2025-03-06
An overview of the most common hives (Dadant, Langstroth) and bee subspecies suited for beginners.
Your choice of hive and bee strain impacts both management style and productivity.
Various Hive Types
Dadant-Blatt:
Widely used in several regions, with a large brood chamber and smaller honey supers.
Langstroth:
A modular design where each box is the same size.
Alternatives:
Top-bar or Warré hives, considered more 'natural' but less intuitive for novices.
Types of Bees
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Italian (Ligustica):
Gentle and productive, common in many areas.
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Carnica:
Known for calm disposition, suitable for cooler climates.
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Buckfast:
A hybrid often praised for productivity and mild temperament, but you must buy from specialized breeders.
Beginner Tip
Generally, start with local, docile bees and a standard hive (Dadant or Langstroth). You’ll find it easier to get supplies and advice from local beekeepers.
Conclusions
Opt for a hive type common in your region and gentle local bees. This makes life much simpler for a new beekeeper, ensuring a smoother start.
