What To Expect

Arriving for Your Pick Up

When you arrive for your appointment, you are coming to an active apiary with many hives on site.

There may be bees flying throughout the area during the day, which is normal for a working bee farm. Being around bees in this setting is part of the pick up experience, and part of being or becoming a beekeeper.

Understanding the difference in bees flying around shopping for resources vs defending their home with their young and food stores can be the difference in being afraid and comfortable in an apiary.

Visit the Bee Behavior section if you would like more information about what causes the defensive behavior.

Bee Activity at the Pick Up Location

Because this is an apiary, bees will be present and flying in the area.

• Some bees may be moving between hives.
• You may see bees flying near people, vehicles, and equipment.
• This activity is normal and not an indication of aggression.

Loading Bees and Equipment

We will gladly load the bees for you at pick up.

• Nucs and hives are fully contained for transport.
• You are not required to handle the bees during loading.
• If you have questions while loading, we are available to help.

Weight and Handling

Knowing what to expect with weight helps with planning and comfort.

• Each Nuc with bees typically weighs around 25 to 30 pounds.
• Complete hives usually weigh about 10 to 15 pounds more.
• Having help unloading once you get the hives home may be needed.

Timing and Flow of Pick Up Day

Pick ups are scheduled by appointment to keep the process moving smoothly.

Most pick ups are straightforward and do not take long once you arrive.

Supplies and Shopping at Pick Up

We do not operate a brick-and-mortar retail store at the pick up location.

Protective gear and supplies are kept at an off-site, climate-controlled facility.

Ordering supplies in advance allows us to have everything ready for you when you arrive.

Communication at Pick Up

If you have questions during your visit, feel free to ask while you are here.

Clear communication at pick up helps avoid confusion once you get home.