Raising honey bees can be a rewarding hobby for backyard beekeepers. Finding a reliable source to purchase bees is the first step to starting your colony. Many online honey bee supply companies ship live bees across the United States, including to the state of Iowa.
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Reputable Online Bee Suppliers
The internet provides beekeepers access to bee suppliers across the country. Reputable online sellers offer complete hive kits with live bees, queens, boxes, frames, and other equipment. Some popular online honey bee providers include:
- Mann Lake Ltd. is a family-owned company selling bees and supplies since 1975. Offers package bees with queens.
- Western Bee Supplies – Sells bees, queens, hive kits, tools, and protective clothing—package bees with marked queens available.
- Bee Weaver Apiaries – Texas-based company selling gentlebred bees for mite resistance and honey production.
- GloryBee – Retailer providing complete hive kits, bees, tools, and accessories. Has beginner beekeeping bundles.
Buying Bees in Iowa
Iowa beekeepers can source honey bees from local apiaries, university bee labs, beekeeping clubs, and national online sellers who ship live bees to most states, including Iowa.
Local classified ads, beekeeping associations, and university Cooperative Extension offices can point hobbyists toward regional bee producers and queen breeders within Iowa. Pickup is more straightforward than having bees shipped.
Shipping Bees
When purchasing bees online for delivery in Iowa, look for companies experienced in safely shipping bees. Only young worker bees without honey stores in ventilated screened packages can be mailed. Adding a mated queen provides an established hive quickly.
Time shipments to avoid extended transit in extreme heat or cold. Opt for overnight or expedited shipping with tracking and notification options.
Inspecting Delivered Bees
Once bee packages arrive, inspect for any leaking syrup, dead bees, or queen issues before installing. Feed upon arrival and introduce to the hive gently. Contact the supplier if the queen appears damaged or if many bees have died.
Starting Your Beekeeping Hobby
Order bees early to get the best selection. Have all equipment set up and ready before your bees arrive. Carefully follow the supplier’s installation instructions. As a beginner, you’ll harvest fresh honey quickly with healthy bees and proper hive management.
Picking Up Bees Locally
For Iowa residents, picking up bee packages in person from local apiaries can be easier than shipping them. This avoids potential shipping delays or hazards. Look for pick-up dates in early spring from beekeepers within driving distance.
Package Sizes
Standard bee packages contain 2-5 lbs of bees, averaging 10,000-30,000. Packages should have a mated, marked queen included. Larger packages establish hives more quickly but cost more. Start with a 2 or 3-lb package for a beginner colony.
Bee Pickup and Delivery Dates
Bees are generally available for shipping from March through early June. Pick up locally when the weather is mild, ideally in April/May. Place orders 1-6 months in advance for best availability. Have supplies ready so bees can be installed immediately.
Parasites and Disease
Reputable suppliers will guarantee their bees are free of common diseases like foulbrood. Ask about parasite treatments and resistance traits that may better survive Varroa mites. Importing bees helps diversify stock.
Buying Established Colonies
In addition to packages, some sellers offer established hives with frames of brood, food stores, and bees. Though pricier, these provide an instantly productive colony. Local pickup of existing hives is recommended.
Equipment Needed
Have hive boxes, frames, feeder, veil, tools, and other equipment set up before installing bees. Assembling hives beforehand allows the bees to be transferred immediately upon arrival.
Installation Guidance
Supplier websites offer instructional videos and PDF guides on safely installing packaged bees into hives. Follow directions closely to transfer bees gently into their new home. Feed them sugar syrup to get them established.
Beekeeping Classes
Consider taking a beginner beekeeping class before ordering bees. Hands-on instruction will ensure you can confidently handle hives, queens, feeding, treatments, and other essential care without issues.
Conclusion
Many well-established honey bee breeding outfits safely ship bees overnight directly to your Iowa door. Order early, as demand is highest in spring. With healthy bees and proper hive care, you’ll be on your way to harvesting fresh honey.
