It is the policy of both the British Beekeepers’ Association and West Cornwall BKA to encourage their members to source their bees from locally raised stock. This is principally because these bees are most likely to be adapted to our local climate and conditions. It makes no sense to expect bees which have evolved in a Mediterranean or other climate to thrive in West Cornwall. It also reduces the potential for further harmful diseases and pests being introduced into the area.
Some new beekeepers do not know where to turn in order to obtain their first stock of bees and often go to the internet, without knowing where these bees and the queen originated. So, to make life easier for new beekeepers as well as others seeking bees, we are listing those members who may have bees available for sale. The purpose of the list is to allow buyer and seller to make contact; the transaction is private between the two parties; and WCBKA cannot be held liable for deficiencies or dissatisfaction which might arise for either party.
Most often, bees are sold as a nuc, and both buyer and seller are advised to be aware of the ‘British Beekeepers’ Association Standard nucleus Guidance notes,’. In particular, a nuc should be a well balanced colony of between 3 and 5 frames, containing a current or previous season’s queen. Brood and eggs in all stages should occupy at least half the total comb area. There should be enough food for at least two weeks and there should be a good balance between young and flying bees, with the frames well covered. The bees should be healthy, and good tempered when handled in good conditions by a competent handler.
The seller should give instructions or assistance regarding the immediate care of the bees.
Your attention is also drawn to a recent Advice Note from fera-‘Advice for Obtaining Honey Bees,’ in which it is recommended that those selling bees should keep a record of the name and address of the purchaser. This is to enable contact tracing in the event of disease.
To Obtain Local Bees Contact
Roger Dewhurst tel: 01209 842860
Tamsin Harris tel: 01736 850692
James Kilty: Honey-Mountain 07980 486245, 01736 850373 for enquiries about nuclei and queens.
Anne McQuade: email, tel: 01326 373749,
Matt Pitt: email, tel: 01209 831095 or mobile: 07590 984192
Stephen Putnam: email, mobile: 07809 897706 or tel: 01736 798333
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