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why our Queens

Produced by Beekeepers, for Beekeepers

Every queen we produce is raised with the same care and attention that we apply throughout our own apiaries. We understand the importance of quality queens and are committed to supplying healthy, well-developed queens that beekeepers can purchase with confidence. Due to limited seasonal availability, we recommend reserving queens early to avoid disappointment.

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why our Queens

Carefully Selected Genetics

Our queens are bred from carefully chosen colonies that demonstrate strong performance, healthy brood patterns, and excellent colony development. By selecting from productive stock, we aim to provide queens capable of building thriving colonies and supporting successful beekeeping operations.

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why our Queens

Calm & Manageable Bees

Temperament is one of the most important traits in any colony. We prioritise calm, manageable bees that are a pleasure to work with, making our queens suitable for both hobbyist and experienced beekeepers alike. A well-tempered colony allows for easier inspections and a more enjoyable beekeeping experience.

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Our Queens

I introduced one of Raw Honey Co's Buckfast queens into a colony that had become difficult to manage. Within weeks the temperament had noticeably improved and the brood pattern was excellent. A quality queen from a supplier that clearly takes pride in their stock
David Trench

David Trench

Verified customer

Safe & Secure Collection

The welfare of our bees is our highest priority. Our Queens are supplied in secure transport boxes and are available for collection by arrangement, ensuring they reach their new home safely and with minimal stress. We are happy to provide guidance on transport and introducing your new Queen to your hive, to help ensure a smooth introduction to your apiary.

Customer service

Purchasing a Mated Queen is just the beginning. We are committed to supporting our customers throughout their beekeeping journey, offering friendly advice and practical guidance before, during, and after collection. Whether you're a first-time beekeeper or an experienced apiarist, we're here to help.

Professionally Managed Colonies

Our Queens are produced from carefully managed hives with a focus on colony health, temperament, and productivity. Every Queen is prepared to a high standard and supplied with the attention to detail and professionalism that beekeepers expect when investing in quality Queens.

Question time

Mated Queen FAQ

What is a mated queen?

A mated queen is a queen bee that has successfully completed her mating flights and has begun laying fertilised eggs. This means she is ready to be introduced into a colony and start building brood immediately after acceptance.

What type of queens do you supply?

We supply carefully selected Buckfast queen bees chosen for their temperament, brood pattern, colony development, and overall performance.

Are your queens naturally mated?

Yes. All of our queens are naturally mated and inspected before being made available for sale.

How are queens supplied?

Queens are supplied in a queen introduction cage with attendant bees and fondant for safe transport and introduction into your colony.

When are queens available?

Queen availability is seasonal and depends on weather conditions and mating success. We recommend reserving early as demand often exceeds supply.

How do I introduce a new queen?

We recommend introducing the queen using the supplied introduction cage and following standard queen introduction procedures. Detailed guidance can be provided upon request.

How long should I leave the queen in the cage?

Most beekeepers leave the queen caged for several days to allow the colony to become accustomed to her presence before release. Introduction methods may vary depending on colony conditions.

Are your queens marked?

Where possible, queens are marked according to the international queen marking colour system to make identification easier during inspections.

What temperament can I expect?

We select breeding stock with a focus on calm, manageable behaviour. While temperament can be influenced by many factors, our aim is to produce queens that develop gentle, productive colonies.

How quickly will the queen start laying?

Most accepted queens will begin laying within a few days of release, although this can vary depending on colony strength, weather, and forage availability.