Keller BeesBEEKEEPING IN VALAIS
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BREEDING & SELECTION

Buckfast queen breeding. Select for tomorrow.

Selection begins in the apiary, with colony observation and consistent work over successive generations.

Small colourful hives in a meadow with trees

01 — BREEDING & SELECTION

The queen at the heart of the colony.

Our breeding work focuses mainly on Buckfast, while also allowing a place for Carnica. Choosing a queen depends on your practice, environment and goals.

Beyond the name of a line, observed behaviour and actual colony development matter.

02 — BREEDING & SELECTION

Concrete criteria, continued observation.

Gentleness

Observing bee behaviour and ease of working in the apiary.

Vitality

Following colony development and adaptation to local conditions.

Hygienic behaviour

Considering traits of interest within a sustained selection programme.

03 — BREEDING & SELECTION

VSH, SMR and Varroa resistance.

VSH and SMR are selection goals in our work concerning Varroa. Observations need context and follow-up over time. A breeding objective is not a guarantee of resistance.

We do not present our bees as fully Varroa-resistant. Selection does not replace colony health monitoring.

04 — BREEDING & SELECTION

Methods & mating.

Breeding may use different mating methods, including instrumental insemination. The method and origin of each queen are information to discuss for your project.

F0 or F1 queens, Buckfast or Carnica: tell us your region, practice and requirements. Availability, prices, dates and arrangements are confirmed directly.

A QUESTION, A PROJECT?

Let’s talk about it.

Describe what you need and your preferred timing. We will discuss the possibilities and conditions with you directly.