Many of our members are supporters and members of NIHBS. Our association apiary is part of the NIHBS queen rearing group, which is held throughout the spring and summer. We only rear Native Irish Honey bees. To avail of this group, you must be a member of RCBKA and NIHBS. If you wish to find out more about NIHBS, please press the link below to visit their website.
THE NATIVE IRISH HONEY BEE
Apis mellifera mellifera
Our native honey bee has been part of Ireland's natural and cultural heritage for thousands of years.
The native Irish honey bee, Apis mellifera mellifera, is a dark European honey bee adapted to the climate and seasons of Ireland.
At Royal County Beekeepers Association, we believe that understanding, protecting and responsibly breeding native bees is an important part of the future of Irish beekeeping.
Identification and behaviour
he Native Irish Honey Bee, Apis mellifera mellifera (AMM), is the dark European honey bee naturally adapted to Ireland's climate and environment. It is typically dark brown to almost black, with a broad abdomen and relatively little yellow colouring. AMM bees are known for their hardiness, efficient use of winter stores and ability to cope with Ireland's cool, wet and changeable weather.
They are generally calm and steady on the comb, although temperament varies between colonies. Their ability to adapt to local conditions, survive Ireland's winters and make the most of short periods of good foraging weather makes the AMM an important part of Ireland's beekeeping heritage.
CONSERVATION
Why protecting native genetics matters
Nihbs is striving towards creating conservation areas throughout the island of Ireland. By creating these areas, we will be protecting this species for generations to come. Every conservation area, big or small, creates corridors interlinking across the country. If your intrested in signing up as a conservation area, contact NIHBS through their website.
