Guidance on Soucing Bees
We strongly encourage members to source bees locally.
The prevailing honey bees here in the Borders are dark, near native bees. Keeping them is welcomed and will contribute to a gradual honey bee rewilding of the Borders.
Notes on sourcing bees locally
Studies show that locally adapted honey bees thrive best in any area. Many BBA members sell nucleus colonies in June and July, and waiting for these to become available is encouraged, especially for beginners.
Bringing bees in from other parts of the UK or from abroad (usually southern Europe) risks introducing pests and diseases not found in the Borders, and should be avoided as far as possible.
There is growing support among BBA members for keeping dark native or near native colonies. You may wish to join our Native Bee Group.