{"title":"Mated Queens","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"mated-queen-bee-first-available","title":"Mated Queen Bee — First Available | Heritage Bee Farm | Ships Overnight","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Best Seller — and the Smartest Way to Order a Mated Queen\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhen you choose our First Available mated queen, you are getting the best queen we have ready to ship on your selected date — period. No waiting for a specific breed to come available. No scheduling around a single-breed production run. Just a top-quality, Heritage Bee Farm-raised mated queen, shipped to you the moment she is ready.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThis option is our most popular for a reason: it puts a proven, productive queen in your hive faster, and it gives us the flexibility to match you with the strongest queen available on your ship date — whether that is Italian, Carniolan, or Hybrid.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat 'First Available' Means\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur apiary raises Italian, Carniolan, and Hybrid mated queens on overlapping production schedules. On any given ship date, the first queens ready to go are the healthiest, most developed queens across all of our active production locations — regardless of breed.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhen you select First Available, you are telling us: send me your best. We match you with the queen that is fully mated, actively laying, and ready to establish herself in your hive right now. If you have a strong breed preference, we offer individual breed listings as well — but for most beekeepers, the First Available queen performs just as well or better, because she was chosen on merit, not by breed alone.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat All Our Queens Have in Common\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRaised from proven breeder colonies selected for strong brood production, gentle temperament, and overall colony health\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eNaturally open-mated in our Central Florida apiaries — diverse, resilient genetics from local drone populations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIndividually inspected before shipping — we do not send a queen we would not put in our own hives\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eShipped via UPS Next Day Air in temperature-appropriate queen cages with attendant bees and candy plug\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRaised in Myakka City, Florida — our warm Central Florida climate allows us to begin grafting earlier in the season than most producers, giving our customers earlier access to quality queens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhy Beekeepers Love the First Available Option\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFastest fulfillment — your queen ships on your selected date without waiting for a specific breed's production window\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eOperational efficiency — ideal for commercial beekeepers and large apiaries managing multiple hives who need queens quickly and reliably\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eQuality-driven selection — the first queens available are always the most developed and ready, so you get our best stock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFlexible for your apiary — all our breeds are gentle, productive, and well-suited to Florida and Southeast climates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSimplifies requeening — no spreadsheets tracking which breed goes where; just order your date and install\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhich Breed Might You Receive?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eYour First Available queen will be one of the following, depending on which breed is leading production on your selected ship date:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eItalian — the most widely kept queen in the United States. Exceptional year-round brood production, fast spring buildup, gentle temperament. Ideal for honey production and commercial pollination.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCarniolan — outstanding winter hardiness, explosive spring buildup, and strong natural hygienic tendencies. A top choice for Northern climates and beekeepers who prefer a more resource-efficient colony.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHybrid (Italian \/ Carniolan) — combines the Italian's consistent brood production with the Carniolan's winter resilience and resource efficiency. An adaptable, versatile queen that performs well across a wide range of climates and management styles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eAll three breeds have been selected for their productivity, gentleness, and suitability for our customers' operations. Any of them will be an excellent addition to your apiary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eShipping and Installation\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eShips via UPS Next Day Air on your selected date — choose your date from the variant selector above\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eQueens arrive in individual cages with attendant bees and a candy plug for safe, gradual release\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eTo introduce: make your colony queenless for 24 hours, then place the caged queen between two frames in the upper brood area\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe colony will naturally release the queen through the candy plug over 3–5 days\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMost queens begin laying within 3–5 days of release from the cage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWe contact you if any adjustments to your ship date are necessary due to weather or production conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCan I request a specific breed with this listing? This listing is specifically for First Available — our breed-specific listings are available separately if you have a strong preference. Most beekeepers are genuinely happy with whichever breed arrives.\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIs First Available lower quality than breed-specific? Not at all. The first queens ready to ship are the most developed and inspected queens across our entire production. In many cases, First Available queens are the cream of the crop from a given production cycle.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWhat if my queen is lost in transit? Contact us immediately. We stand behind our queens and will work with you to make it right.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDo you ship to my state? We ship mated queens via UPS Next Day Air to all states that permit live queen bee imports. Contact us if you have questions about your state's regulations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrom Our Hives to Yours — With Care at Every Step\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHeritage Bee Farm is a family beekeeping operation in Myakka City, Florida. We raise our queens from breeder selection through grafting, incubation, mating, and final inspection — managing every step ourselves so we can stand behind every queen we ship. When you order from us, you are not buying from a warehouse. You are buying from the beekeeper.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSelect your ship date above and get your colony the queen it deserves. We look forward to being part of your apiary.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"heritagebees","offers":[{"title":"Wed Jun 18 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053841952980,"sku":"Queen2","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jun 18 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704186068,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jun 18 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704218836,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jun 25 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053841985748,"sku":"Queen3","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jun 25 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704251604,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jun 25 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704284372,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 02 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842018516,"sku":"Queen4","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jul 02 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704317140,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 02 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704349908,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 09 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842051284,"sku":"Queen5","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jul 09 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704382676,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 09 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704415444,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 16 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842084052,"sku":"Queen6","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jul 16 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704448212,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 16 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704480980,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 23 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842116820,"sku":"Queen7","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jul 23 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704513748,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 23 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704546516,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 30 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842149588,"sku":"Queen8","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Jul 30 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704579284,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Jul 30 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704612052,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 06 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842182356,"sku":"Queen9","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Aug 06 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704644820,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 06 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704677588,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 13 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842215124,"sku":"Queen10","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Aug 13 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704710356,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 13 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704743124,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 20 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842247892,"sku":"Queen11","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Aug 20 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704775892,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 20 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704808660,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 27 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842280660,"sku":"Queen12","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Aug 27 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704841428,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Aug 27 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704874196,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 03 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842313428,"sku":"Queen13","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Sep 03 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704906964,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 03 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704939732,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 10 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842346196,"sku":"Queen14","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Sep 10 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057704972500,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 10 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057705005268,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 17 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842378964,"sku":"Queen15","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Sep 17 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057705038036,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 17 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057705070804,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 24 \/ First Available","offer_id":48053842411732,"sku":"Queen16","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Wed Sep 24 \/ Italian (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057705103572,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Wed Sep 24 \/ Carniolan (we will contact you with a ship date)","offer_id":48057705136340,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0646\/0384\/8916\/products\/ItalianMatedQueenforSaleLogo.jpg?v=1656446696"},{"product_id":"carniolan-mated-queen-bee","title":"Carniolan Mated Queen Bee for Sale | Heritage Bee Farm Pickup | Ships Overnight","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Carniolan Queen — Great Overwintering \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Carniolan honeybee (Apis mellifera carnica) originated in the alpine regions of Slovenia and Austria, and the harsh mountain winters of its homeland shaped a bee that is uniquely efficient, adaptable, and remarkably gentle. Today the Carniolan queen is one of the most sought-after breeds in American beekeeping — particularly among beekeepers who want a colony that works smarter, not just harder.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Heritage Bee Farm Carniolan mated queens are raised from proven breeder colonies in Myakka City, Florida. Naturally open-mated with local drones, every queen is inspected before shipping to make sure she is fully mated, actively laying, and ready to hit the ground running in your hive.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey Traits of the Carniolan Queen Bee\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eOutstanding winter hardiness — Carniolans dramatically reduce colony population during dearth and cold months, conserving stores and emerging strong in spring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExplosive spring buildup — when forage returns, Carniolan colonies expand rapidly, reaching full strength early in the nectar flow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExceptional gentleness — consistently ranked among the calmest, most manageable honeybee breeds in the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eResource efficiency — winter clusters are smaller, meaning less supplemental feeding and lower winter losses compared to Italian colonies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStrong hygienic behavior — natural tendencies that contribute to better varroa mite resistance and overall colony health\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExcellent adaptation — performs well in colder Northern climates and moderate Southern regions alike\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDark gray coloring — distinctive appearance that makes queens and workers easy to distinguish from other breeds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIs the Carniolan Queen Right for Your Operation?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Carniolan queen is an outstanding choice for beekeepers in colder climates who want a winter-hardy colony that doesn't burn through stores during dearth. It is also a top pick for beekeepers who prefer to minimize supplemental feeding and those who value exceptionally gentle bees for urban or suburban apiaries. One thing to be aware of: Carniolans are more prone to swarming than Italians — especially in spring as the colony expands rapidly. Experienced beekeepers manage this with timely splits. For those focused on natural mite resistance and hygienic colony behavior, the Carniolan is consistently one of the best performers.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eBest For\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBeekeepers in colder Northern climates who need proven winter hardiness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHobbyists who want to minimize supplemental winter feeding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eUrban and suburban beekeepers who need calm, low-defensiveness colonies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBeekeepers focused on natural mite resilience and hygienic behavior\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAnyone who wants explosive spring buildup to capitalize on early nectar flows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThose who manage multiple hives and want a lower-maintenance breed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eShipping and Availability\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Carniolan mated queens ship via UPS Next Day Air on your selected date. Each queen is individually caged with attendant bees and a candy plug for safe, gradual colony introduction. Choose your preferred ship date from the variant selector above. Every queen is personally inspected before shipping — we stand behind every queen we send.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow is the Carniolan different from the Italian queen?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCarniolans are darker in color, more winter-efficient, and better at conserving colony resources during dearth. Italians maintain larger year-round populations and are generally better for maximum honey production in warm climates. Many beekeepers run both breeds and value each for different reasons.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eDo Carniolan colonies really swarm more?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCarniolan colonies do have a stronger swarming tendency than Italians, particularly in spring when the colony expands quickly. This is manageable with timely splits and regular swarm checks. Many beekeepers see this as an opportunity to grow their apiary.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow do I introduce my Carniolan queen?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMake the colony queenless for 24 hours before introducing the caged queen between two frames in the upper brood box. Let the colony release her naturally through the candy plug over 3–5 days — do not open the cage yourself.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAre Carniolans good for beginners?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbsolutely. Their exceptional gentleness and manageable temperament make them a great choice for new beekeepers. The swarming tendency is something to learn to manage, but it is not a reason to avoid them.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFlorida Raised, Proven Genetics — Shipped to Your Door\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p6\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHeritage Bee Farm raises all of our queens from breeder selection through grafting, mating, and inspection at our Myakka City, Florida apiary. Our Central Florida location means we begin producing quality queens earlier in the season than most producers — giving our customers access to healthy, vigorous Carniolan queens when they need them most. Select your ship date above and put a Heritage Bee Farm Carniolan queen to work in your apiary\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"heritagebees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47773043720404,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0646\/0384\/8916\/files\/carniolanmatedqueenbeefromheritagebeefarm_22e54a7c-d382-4508-82a3-490e58925640.jpg?v=1776877459"},{"product_id":"caucasian-mated-queen-bee","title":"Caucasian Mated Queen Bee for Sale | Heritage Bee Farm | Ships Overnight","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Caucasian Queen — The World's Gentlest Honeybee\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Caucasian honeybee (Apis mellifera caucasica) originates from the high mountain valleys of the Caucasus region — Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan — where centuries of evolution shaped a bee of extraordinary calmness, remarkable foraging range, and steady, reliable productivity. Among experienced beekeepers, the Caucasian is widely regarded as the gentlest honeybee breed in the world.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Heritage Bee Farm Caucasian mated queens are raised from quality breeder stock in Myakka City, Florida, naturally open-mated with local drones, and personally inspected before shipping. If you have ever wanted a hive you could open without gloves — or without much smoke — the Caucasian might be exactly what your apiary needs.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey Traits of the Caucasian Queen Bee\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExtraordinary gentleness — widely considered the calmest, most docile honeybee breed available anywhere in the world\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLongest tongue of any honeybee breed — Caucasian bees can access deep tubular flowers that other breeds cannot fully exploit, giving them a meaningful foraging advantage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSteady, consistent brood production — colonies grow at a measured, reliable pace without the population swings of more aggressive breeds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGood winter hardiness — Caucasian bees overwinter well and are suitable for cooler climates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLow defensiveness — minimal reaction to hive inspections even without heavy smoke, ideal for beekeepers who prefer relaxed hive management\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHeavy propolis production — colonies seal gaps and cracks thoroughly, which can benefit hive health but requires a good hive tool at every inspection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIs the Caucasian Queen Right for Your Operation?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Caucasian queen is the top recommendation for any beekeeper who values calmness above all other traits — urban beekeepers with neighbors nearby, beekeeping educators who do demonstrations, new beekeepers who want a forgiving first hive, and anyone who simply wants an easier, more relaxed experience at the hive. Two things to plan for: Caucasian colonies are known for heavy propolis use, which can make frames and hive components sticky and harder to separate — always bring your hive tool. They also tend to build up more slowly in spring than Italian or Carniolan colonies, so they may not be the first choice for beekeepers chasing an early nectar flow.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eBest For\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eUrban and suburban beekeepers who need the lowest-defensiveness colony possible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBeekeeping educators and those who do public bee demonstrations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eNew beekeepers wanting the most forgiving, gentle first hive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBeekeepers in cooler climates who want good winter hardiness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAnyone who has dealt with defensive hives and wants a complete change\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBeekeepers who want access to the widest range of floral nectar sources\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eShipping and Availability\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Caucasian mated queens ship via UPS Next Day Air on your selected date. Each queen is individually caged with attendant bees and a candy plug for gradual colony introduction. Select your preferred ship date from the variant selector above. Every queen is inspected at our Myakka City, Florida apiary before she ships.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAre Caucasian bees really that gentle?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIn our experience, yes — Caucasian colonies are noticeably calmer during inspections than most other breeds. Many beekeepers who keep Caucasians describe them as the most relaxed hive they have ever worked with. That said, all bees will defend themselves if threatened — proper protective gear is still recommended.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat is the heavy propolis use like in practice?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCaucasian bees are heavy propolis producers, meaning they fill gaps and cracks in the hive thoroughly. This is actually beneficial for hive health, but it does mean your frames and boxes may be more difficult to separate. A sturdy hive tool and some patience go a long way.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow do Caucasians compare to Italians for honey production?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eItalians typically outproduce Caucasians in honey yield due to their larger colony populations. Caucasians are solid producers, but their main advantage is temperament and foraging range, not raw honey volume.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow do I introduce a Caucasian queen?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSame as any queen introduction — make the colony queenless 24 hours before placing the caged queen between frames in the upper brood box. Let the bees release her through the candy plug naturally over 3–5 days.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExperience a Truly Calm Hive — Order Today\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p6\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIf you have spent any time working defensive hives and wondering if beekeeping has to feel that stressful, a Caucasian queen from Heritage Bee Farm may be the answer. Raised at our Myakka City, Florida apiary with the same care and quality control we put into every queen we produce — select your ship date above and discover what the world's gentlest honeybee can do for your apiary\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"heritagebees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47773043884244,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"hybrid-mated-queen-italian-carniolan","title":"Hybrid Mated Queen (Italian \/ Carniolan)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHybrid Queens are known for producing hives that have a high volume of brood year-round. The queen tends to continue to lay eggs regardless of weather, nectar or pollen conditions and many beekeepers who pollinate in early spring prefer the Italian for this reason. Since Italian queens produce a large hive population, it’s important to keep the colony fed throughout colder months when bees are unable to forage and are also otherwise consuming high amounts of syrup or honey. They can sustain in the colder climates but will need food or honey for the brood. Heritage Bee Farm Italian Queens and Queen Cells have mixed coloring since we allow for healthy open mating. They have many fine qualities: the queens are exceptionally prolific, known for a fast spring buildup, and they gentle. From New Beekeepers to Commercial Pollinators and Honey Producers you can be confident that when you purchase an Italian Queen from Heritage Bee Farm you are not only getting a high-quality Queen with great genetics, but you are getting the benefits of a high-quality control process: from breeder queen selection to colony feeding (to produce quality royal jelly and queen cells), to grafting, incubating and finally getting the queens and cells to you... through shipping or delivery. We do all we can to ensure quality and care each step of the process!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"heritagebees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47773044146388,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0646\/0384\/8916\/products\/ItalianMatedQueenforSaleLogo.jpg?v=1656446696"},{"product_id":"italian-mated-queen-bee-for-sale","title":"Italian Mated Queen Bee for Sale | Heritage Bee Farm | Ships Overnight","description":"\u003ch2 class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Italian Queen — America's Most Popular Honeybee\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Italian honeybee (Apis mellifera ligustica) is the most widely kept bee in the United States, and for good reason. Known for their golden-yellow banding, gentle nature, and extraordinary brood production, Italian queens build the kind of large, thriving colonies that both beginner beekeepers and commercial operations depend on.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Heritage Bee Farm Italian mated queens are raised from carefully selected breeder colonies in Myakka City, Florida — chosen generation after generation for the traits that matter most: consistent brood patterns, fast spring buildup, high honey yields, and a calm, manageable temperament that makes hive inspections a pleasure rather than a chore.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey Traits of the Italian Queen Bee\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eExceptional year-round brood production — Italian queens lay heavily regardless of weather or forage conditions, keeping colony populations strong through the seasons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFast spring buildup — colonies ramp up quickly at the first sign of nectar flow, putting you ahead of the season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGentle, calm temperament — widely considered one of the easiest honeybees to manage, ideal for beekeepers of all experience levels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHigh honey production — large populations mean strong foraging forces and excellent honey yields\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLight golden-yellow coloring — easy to spot on the frame during inspections\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAdaptable to warm climates — thrives year-round in Florida and throughout the Southeast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIs the Italian Queen Right for Your Operation?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eItalian queens are the go-to choice for beekeepers focused on maximum honey production, commercial pollination services, and anyone who values a gentle, easy-to-inspect hive. They are an excellent starting point for new beekeepers and a reliable workhorse for experienced commercial operators. One thing to plan for: because Italian colonies maintain large populations year-round, hives in colder climates may need supplemental feeding during winter when foraging is limited.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eBest For\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eNew beekeepers wanting a gentle, manageable first hive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHoney producers who want strong foraging populations all season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCommercial pollinators who need reliable spring buildup\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBeekeepers in Florida, the South, and warm temperate climates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li2\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAnyone requeening after a colony loss who wants a proven, dependable breed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eShipping and Availability\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur Italian mated queens ship via UPS Next Day Air on your selected date. Each queen is individually caged with attendant bees and a candy plug for safe, gradual colony introduction. Select your preferred ship date from the variant selector above. During checkout and you can also select Farm Pickup. We inspect every queen before she ships — we do not send a queen we would not put in our own hives.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow do I introduce my Italian queen to the hive?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMake the colony queenless for 24 hours first. Place the caged queen between two frames in the upper brood box. The colony will release her naturally through the candy plug over 3–5 days. Do not remove the cage yourself — let the bees do it.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow soon will my Italian queen start laying?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMost Italian queens begin laying within 3–5 days of being released from the cage. You should see eggs within a week of installation.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHow is the Italian bee different from the Carniolan?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eItalian queens maintain larger year-round populations and are better suited for maximum honey production. Carniolan queens are more winter-efficient and may be a better fit for colder climates. Many beekeepers run both breeds across their apiary.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat does open-mated mean?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p5\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOur queens mate naturally in the field with local drones rather than being artificially inseminated. This produces more genetically diverse, resilient colonies — a sign of quality, not a shortcut.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eRaised Right — From Breeder Selection to Your Door\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p6\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHeritage Bee Farm manages every step of our queen production in-house at our Myakka City, Florida apiary — from breeder colony selection and royal jelly feeding, through grafting, incubation, mating, and final inspection. When your Italian queen arrives, she has been raised by beekeepers who care about every step of the process. Select your ship date above and let us put a quality Italian queen to work in your hive.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"heritagebees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47830409150676,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0646\/0384\/8916\/files\/italianmatedqueensheritagebeefarm.jpg?v=1776877530"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.heritagebees.com\/collections\/mated-queens\/mated-queens.oembed","provider":"Heritage Bee Farm ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}