What matters when choosing bees in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania beekeepers deal with cold winters, a variable spring, summer dearth periods in some areas, and varroa mite pressure like most of North America. Because of that, the “best” bee is usually less about a single breed and more about a few practical qualities:
- Winter survival: colonies that cluster well and use stores sensibly.
- Gentleness: especially important in suburban and shared spaces.
- Mite management: stocks with hygienic behavior may help, though none replace monitoring and treatment decisions.
- Local adaptation: bees raised in a similar climate tend to cope better with it.
For background on the breeds themselves, see our overview of types of honey bees.
Breeds compared for Pennsylvania
These are general tendencies, not guarantees.
| Stock | Possible advantages | Possible drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Italian | Gentle, strong brood and honey production | Heavy food use in winter; can dwindle if stores run short; drifting and robbing reported |
| Carniolan | Gentle, builds up quickly in spring, often overwinters with modest stores | May swarm more readily |
| Buckfast | Often gentle and productive | Quality varies by breeder |
| Russian | Selected for varroa resistance | Can be slower to build; sometimes more defensive; traits dilute with crossing |
| Locally raised or survivor stock | Adapted to local weather and forage | Temperament and quality vary; ask about the breeder’s selection |
Italians are the most widely sold, and many Pennsylvania beekeepers do well with them if they feed and monitor stores carefully (see Italian bee queens). Carniolan-influenced or locally adapted bees are often suggested for colder areas.
Packages, nucs or local queens
- Packages are usually cheaper and widely shipped, but you start from scratch with a new queen.
- Nucleus colonies (nucs), ideally from a local producer, come with drawn comb and brood and often establish faster.
- Requeening an existing colony with a locally raised mated queen is a way to improve stock over time.
Where to find bees
The Pennsylvania State Beekeepers Association maintains a page about buying honey bees, which is a sensible starting point. Local county beekeeping clubs are also useful, since members often know which nearby producers raise overwintered nucs and queens. Order early, as spring supply is limited.
Are honey bees native to Pennsylvania?
No. The Western honey bee came from the Old World and was brought to North America by European settlers. Pennsylvania does have many native bee species, including bumblebees, mason bees, sweat bees and mining bees; see honey bees vs bumblebees for how two of the best-known groups differ.
Is it legal to keep bees in Pennsylvania?
Beekeeping is generally allowed. Pennsylvania has a Bee Law that requires beekeepers to register their apiaries with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and local zoning or municipal ordinances, which vary by town, may add further rules. Requirements and fees change, so check with the Department and your municipality before setting up.
What can I put out to attract honey bees?
Plant a variety of flowers that bloom across the season. Early-spring bloomers such as maples, willows and fruit trees, followed by clovers and other summer and fall flowers, give foragers something to work. A clean, shallow water source with landing spots helps too.
Practical recommendation
For a first Pennsylvania hive, a gentle stock from a nearby breeder, bought as a nuc if possible, is a reasonable approach. Pay attention to winter stores and mite counts, and talk to a local mentor or club about what has worked in your area.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 3-3-3 rule for bees?
The phrase is used in different ways. One common version refers to leaving a newly installed colony alone for a short period before inspecting, but advice varies, so ask your supplier or mentor what they mean.
What bees are native to Pennsylvania?
Native species include many bumblebees, mason bees, sweat bees and mining bees. Honey bees are not native.