A Guide to Seven Honey Bee Types

Discovering the Diversity

Worker Bee Apiaries & Co

6/27/20232 min read

Honey bees are a diverse species, with various bee types that exhibit unique characteristics and traits. As a beekeeper, understanding these different types can help you choose the right bees for your hive and enhance your beekeeping experience. In this guide, we will explore seven popular honey bee types, their strengths, weaknesses, and what makes each one special.

  1. Italian Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera ligustica

    Known for their adaptability and worldwide popularity, Italian honey bees are gentle and easy to manage. They are excellent for beginner beekeepers seeking docile and non-aggressive bees. Italian bees are efficient foragers, gather large amounts of nectar and pollen, and build impressive honey stores. However, they require substantial resources to survive winter and are prone to drifting and swarming.

  2. Carniolan Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera carnica Carniolan bees

    native to Slovenia, are known for their explosive spring buildup and excellent honey production. They are gentle, docile, and display good resistance to mites and diseases. Carniolans are early foragers and adapt well to various hive conditions. However, they may swarm when their population outgrows the available space.

  3. Russian Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera

    Russian bees are renowned for their ability to overwinter in cold climates. They exhibit strong varroa mite resistance and adjust brood production during times of dearth. Russian honey bees are adaptable to fluctuating foraging resources and can raise new queens without swarming. However, they may be more aggressive than other breeds and require diligent management during periods of abundant resources.

  4. Buckfast Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera

    Buckfast bees are a hybrid breed developed by Brother Adam to combat tracheal mite infestations. They are known for their tolerance to cold weather, high tracheal mite resistance, and gentle nature. Buckfast bees produce quality honey, exhibit low swarming tendencies, and are hygienic within the hive. However, they may be harder to find compared to other breeds.

  5. Caucasian Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera caucasica

    Originating from the Caucasus region, Caucasian honey bees are gentle and suitable for beginner beekeepers. They exhibit good honey production and adaptability to cold climates. Caucasians are less likely to release apitoxin when stinging, reducing the chances of multiple bee attacks. However, they have a tendency to build propolis and are susceptible to certain diseases.

  6. Cordovan Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera

    Cordovan bees are a subset of Italian honey bees, known for their beautiful golden color. They are docile, excellent early spring builders, and have a low tendency to swarm. Cordovan bees are visually striking and easy to spot, making them a preferred choice for hobbyists. However, they may exhibit tendencies such as robbing other hives and having higher honey consumption.

  7. Africanized Honey Bee

    Scientific name: Apis mellifera scutellata

    Africanized bees, also known as killer bees, are a hybrid of European and African honey bee races. They are highly aggressive and not suitable for beekeeping purposes. Africanized bees have a tendency to swarm and require minimal honey stores. While they have their unique traits, they are considered a significant threat to hives and are not used by backyard or commercial beekeepers.

Understanding the diverse range of honey bee types allows beekeepers to make informed choices based on their specific requirements and preferences. Each bee type possesses distinct strengths and weaknesses, and it's essential to consider factors such as temperament, honey production, resistance to pests, and adaptability to different climates. By selecting the right honey bee type, beekeepers can enhance the success and productivity of their hives while fostering a rewarding beekeeping journey.