Beekeeping has been gaining popularity in New Mexico in recent years, with more and more people recognizing the importance of beekeeping for the environment and local agriculture. As interest in beekeeping grows, the demand for beekeeping supplies has also increased.

Fortunately, New Mexico is home to a thriving community of beekeeping supply businesses, offering a wide range of products and resources to support both new and experienced beekeepers.

No matter where you are looking for beekeeping supplies in New Mexico, we’ve got you covered.

Beekeeping in New Mexico

• The diverse flora, ranging from desert plants to wildflowers, allows bees in New Mexico to produce unique and flavorful honey varieties coveted by both local consumers and international markets.
• There are approximately 1,200 registered beekeepers in New Mexico, managing up to 5,500 colonies.

Beekeeping Equipment

Beekeeping is a valuable and necessary activity that requires the proper equipment to ensure the health and well-being of honeybee colonies. Before embarking on a beekeeping journey, it is important to have a good understanding of the essential beekeeping supplies.

Beehive Components

Beekeeping is a rewarding and essential practice that requires the right equipment to ensure the well-being of honeybee colonies. It is crucial to understand the necessary bee supplies before embarking on a beekeeping journey.

• Hive Boxes: Hive boxes, also known as supers, are one of the most vital components of a beehive. They serve as the living quarters for honeybees and their honeycombs. Beekeepers can choose from different hive styles, such as Langstroth, top bar, and Warre hives, based on their preferences and the needs of their bees.
• Frames: Frames, suspended within each hive box, provide structural support for the honeycombs and serve as a foundation for brood rearing and honey storage. Properly assembled frames play a key role in the bees’ ability to organize their colony and facilitate beekeeping management.
• Bottom Boards: Bottom boards act as the base of the beehive, offering stability and ventilation while providing an entrance for the honeybees to come and go freely. They also defend the colony against intruders.
• Inner Covers and Outer Covers: Completing the structural integrity of the hive, inner covers and outer covers provide insulation and protection to the honeybees. Inner covers add an extra layer of insulation, while outer covers safeguard the hive from harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind.

Having high-quality hive boxes, frames, bottom boards, inner covers, and outer covers is essential for successful hive management. It is crucial to accommodate various stages of bee colony growth and maintain the comfort and productivity of honeybees.

Protective Gear:

Beekeeping requires the use of top-quality protective clothing to ensure the safety and wellbeing of beekeepers.

Bee Suit: A bee suit is an essential piece of protective clothing that provides vital defense against bee stings and ensures complete coverage during beekeeping activities. There are two main types of bee suits to consider:

• Canvas Beekeeping Suits: Known for their durability and exceptional resistance to bee stings, canvas beekeeping suits offer robust protection for beekeepers.
• Ventilated Bee Suits: Crafted with a breathable mesh fabric, ventilated bee suits allow beekeepers to work comfortably in hot weather conditions while ensuring steadfast protection from bee stings.

Bee Gloves: Selecting the right pair of beekeeping gloves is crucial for protecting hands against stings while maintaining dexterity. The two primary options include:

• Goatskin Bee Gloves: Celebrated for their exceptional tactile sensitivity, goatskin bee gloves enable beekeepers to handle delicate tasks with ease while shielding against stings.
• Cowhide Bee Gloves: With their thick leather construction, cowhide bee gloves provide robust protection, ensuring the safety of beekeepers’ hands during beekeeping activities.

Beekeeping Boots: Designed to prevent bee access to the feet, beekeeping boots are an essential addition to beekeeping supplies, ensuring the protection of feet during the care of honey bee colonies.

Veil: A reliable beekeeping veil, made from fine mesh, plays a critical role in shielding the face and neck from bee stings, offering optimal visibility while preventing bee contact with the skin. It’s important to note that many bee suits come equipped with a detachable veil.

Purchasing Options and Considerations

Many beekeepers can acquire a combo pack consisting of a bee suit and bee gloves at a discounted price, providing a convenient and cost-effective solution for obtaining essential protective clothing for beekeeping.

Investing in high-quality protective gear is crucial for beekeepers to ensure safety and comfort during their beekeeping activities. Having a comprehensive understanding of the various options available for bee suits, gloves, boots, and veils empowers beekeepers to make informed decisions that will enhance their beekeeping journey.

Beekeeping Tools for New Mexico Beekeepers

Beekeeping is a rewarding and essential practice, especially for those based in New Mexico. To effectively manage hives, it is vital to have the right tools at your disposal. Here, we will explore some of the most crucial beekeeping tools that every beekeeper in New Mexico should have in their arsenal.

• Hive Tool: The hive tool is a versatile instrument used for separating and prying apart hive components during inspections. With its flat blade and curved hook design, beekeepers can effortlessly lift frames, scrape off excess propolis, and remove burr comb. Its sturdy construction ensures efficient hive management without causing harm to the bees or equipment.
• Bee Smoker: The bee smoker is an indispensable tool for calming honeybees during hive inspections. Emitting cool smoke that masks the alarm pheromones released by guard bees, the smoker aids beekeepers in pacifying the colony, thus minimizing the risk of stings. Additionally, it triggers a feeding response in bees, reducing their inclination to sting. Every beekeeper in New Mexico should keep a smoker and extra fuel on hand for effective hive management.
• Bee Brush: Designed with the utmost care for the bees’ well-being, the bee brush allows beekeepers to gently move bees away from specific areas during inspections without causing harm or stress. This tool keeps the bees calm and prevents unnecessary crushing or injuries, establishing harmonious interaction between beekeepers and their cherished honeybees.
• Queen Marking Tools: Queen marking tools are essential for identifying and tracking the queen bee within a colony. These tools, usually small, colored plastic or metal markers, provide vital information about the queen’s age and year. This color-coded system enables beekeepers to easily locate and monitor her during hive inspections, ensuring the health and longevity of the colonies.

Having the right beekeeping tools is indispensable for successful hive management in New Mexico. Each of these tools serves a specific purpose, contributing to the well-being of the bees and enhancing the smooth operation of a beekeeping business.

Hive Feeders:

Beekeepers play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of their bees by providing them with a consistent and reliable source of nutrition. While bees typically obtain nectar and pollen from flowers, there are instances when supplemental feeding becomes necessary, especially during periods of scarcity or when establishing new colonies.

The Importance of Hive Feeders

Hive feeders are essential tools that empower beekeepers to offer vital nourishment to their bees. These feeders are specifically designed to hold various types of supplemental food, such as sugar syrup or pollen substitute, that can be readily consumed by the bees. By providing an accessible and controlled source of nutrition, hive feeders are instrumental in ensuring that bee colonies have the energy necessary to thrive, produce honey, and expand their population.

Types of Hive Feeders and Their Functions

• Entrance Feeders: Among the various types of hive feeders, entrance feeders stand as a popular choice among beekeepers. Positioned near the hive entrance, these feeders grant easy access to supplemental food for the bees. Typically, they consist of a small container or tray with small holes or slots to prevent drowning while allowing the bees to feed. Known for their simplicity of use and monitoring, entrance feeders cater to beekeepers of all experience levels.
• Boardman Feeders: Another commonly utilized hive feeder is the Boardman feeder, particularly favored by novice beekeepers. Similar to entrance feeders, they are placed at the hive entrance and feature a small plastic or glass jar with tiny holes or slits on the lid, facilitating easy access for the bees. Boardman feeders are often used with commercially available sugar water mixes and can hold larger volumes of food compared to entrance feeders.
• Top Feeders: In contrast to entrance and Boardman feeders, top feeders are positioned directly on top of the hive, just below the outer cover. With their larger capacity, top feeders can hold significant amounts of food, making them suitable for feeding larger colonies or when substantial supplemental food is required. Equipped with floats or caps to prevent drowning, this type of feeder allows beekeepers to provide ample food without frequent disturbances to the hive.
• Division Board Feeders: Division board feeders are typically positioned inside the hive, replacing one or more frames in the brood nest area, ensuring easy access and minimal disruption to the hive’s organization. These feeders can hold liquid feed, such as sugar syrup or pollen substitute, serving as an efficient means of nourishing the bees. They prove particularly useful during unfavorable weather conditions, such as cold or rainy periods, as they reduce bees’ exposure to external elements while ensuring their nutritional needs are met.

Hive feeders play a vital role in maintaining and promoting the well-being of bee colonies. By understanding the different types of hive feeders and their functions, beekeepers can effectively support their bees’ nutritional requirements, contributing to the overall health and productivity of the hives.

Feeding Bees: Enhancing Honeybee Nutrition

Honeybees rely on honey as their main source of nutrition, but there are times when supplementing their diet becomes necessary for their welfare and efficiency.

Sugar Syrup:

• Simple Preparation: Preparing sugar syrup involves dissolving granulated sugar in water, making it a convenient choice for beekeepers.
• Ratios: For spring and summer feeding, a common ratio is 1 part granulated sugar to 1 part water. In the fall, a ratio of 2 parts sugar to 1 part water provides optimal nourishment.
• Safety: It is important to use only granulated white sugar when preparing sugar syrup, avoiding the use of honey, brown sugar, or other sweeteners.

Protein Patties: Protein patties, consisting of soy flour, brewer’s yeast, and essential nutrients, can be placed directly in the hive to supplement the bees’ diet during times of limited natural protein sources.

Pollen Substitute: During periods of restricted natural pollen availability, pollen substitute can be utilized to fulfill the dietary needs of bees. Here is a video of a DIY pollen feeder.

• Commercial Options: Beekeepers can easily obtain commercially available pollen substitutes and mix them with water to form a patty-like consistency, providing an alternative source of nutrition for the bees.

Probiotic Supplements: Just like humans, bees benefit from mineral and vitamin supplementation containing beneficial microflora to support gut health and immunity.

Providing honeybees with a diverse diet is essential for their overall well-being and productivity. While honey serves as their main nutrition source, additional feeding through sugar syrup, protein patties, and pollen substitutes can be advantageous in ensuring their optimal health.

Pest Control Products for Beekeepers

Beekeepers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of honeybee colonies. Effective pest control is essential to protect these colonies from potential threats and diseases.

Varroa Mite Treatments: Varroa mites pose a significant threat to honeybee colonies, as they feed on adult bees and their developing brood. Prioritizing Varroa mite control is vital to prevent any adverse impact on colony health and prevent potential demise.

• Chemical Treatments for Varroa Mites: Beekeepers often resort to chemical treatments like oxalic acid or formic acid to control Varroa mite infestations. When used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, these substances effectively reduce Varroa mite populations in bee hives, minimizing their impact on honeybee colonies.
• Organic Alternatives for Varroa Mite Control: For beekeepers who prefer natural alternatives, organic treatments for Varroa mite control are available. Thermal treatments, thymol-based products, and essential oils have shown effectiveness in managing Varroa mite infestations, offering an environmentally friendly approach to pest control while delivering positive results.

Wax Moth Control: Wax moths can cause substantial damage to honeybee hives. Therefore, proactive management of wax moth populations is crucial to prevent harm to bee colonies.

• Chemical Treatments for Wax Moth Control: Paradichlorobenzene or freezing frames are commonly used to control wax moth infestations in beehives. These methods effectively target and eliminate wax moth populations, reducing the risk of damage to beeswax comb and maintaining overall colony health.

Hive Beetle Control: Hive beetles can cause significant damage to beehives, affecting the brood, honey, and overall colony health. Here are some methods used to combat this pest:

• Hive Beetle Traps: Various trap designs are available, such as oil-based traps, screen-type traps, or natural traps utilizing diatomaceous earth.
• Thermal Treatments: Subjecting the infested hive to controlled temperatures, usually between 102°F to 105°F (38.9°C to 40.6°C), has proven to be an effective method in controlling hive beetles without harming the bees. This treatment is best suited for hobbyist beekeepers managing 10 colonies or less.

Efficient pest control is paramount for beekeepers to safeguard honeybee colonies from potential threats and diseases. Prioritizing Varroa mite treatments, wax moth control, and hive beetle control is essential to maintain colony health and prevent any adverse impact on honeybee colonies.

Extraction and Processing Equipment

Beekeepers rely on extraction equipment to efficiently harvest honey from beehives. The right tools are essential for maintaining the quality of honey and maximizing the yield. Here are the key equipment and tools that play a crucial role in the honey extraction process:

• Honey Extractors: Honey extractors are specialized machines designed to remove honey from honeycomb frames without causing any damage. They utilize centrifugal force to spin the frames, separating honey from the comb. Beekeepers can choose from manual and electric models based on their preferences and harvesting requirements.
• Uncapping Tools: Uncapping tools, including uncapping knives, electric uncapping knives, or uncapping forks, are indispensable for removing wax caps from cells before placing frames in the honey extractor. These tools are vital for ensuring an efficient and effective honey extraction process.
• Honey Filters: Honey filters, also referred to as honey strainers or sieves, are crucial for maintaining the quality of honey by eliminating impurities and debris. Equipped with fine mesh screens, these filters trap unwanted particles while allowing pure honey to pass through. Using honey filters guarantees the purity and clarity of harvested honey.
• Honey Buckets: Food-grade buckets are essential for storing extracted and filtered honey. These buckets are made of food-safe materials and feature airtight lids to ensure the freshness and prevent contamination of honey.
• Wax Melters: Wax melters are instrumental in efficiently extracting and purifying beeswax. They help beekeepers maximize resources and minimize waste, contributing to the success of beekeeping operations.
• Bottling Supplies: Including jars, lids, labels, and honey dispensers to ensure proper storage and presentation of honey.

The right extraction and processing equipment are crucial for efficient honey harvesting. Beekeepers must invest in high-quality tools to maintain the quality of honey and maximize their yields.

Advanced Beekeeping Equipment

Beekeeping is a meticulous and intricate craft that demands the use of high-quality equipment to prioritize the well-being and efficiency of bee colonies.

• Queen Excluder: The queen excluder is an indispensable tool for advanced beekeepers. This device effectively separates the queen from specific areas of the hive, enabling seamless honey extraction and upholding a sanitary environment within the colony. Constructed with a grid or mesh material, the queen excluder allows worker bees to pass through easily while preventing the queen’s movement. It is strategically positioned between the brood chamber and honey supers.
• Queen Rearing Supplies: Sustaining a flourishing bee colony entails the use of advanced queen rearing supplies. These specialized tools and equipment play a crucial role in fostering replacement queens and supporting the overall growth and development of the colony. Essential equipment includes queen cages, grafting tools, and mating nucs, which are vital for nurturing robust and healthy queens.
• Pollen Traps: Pollen traps are essential in gathering pollen for the nourishment of bee colonies. Advanced traps ensure efficient pollen collection while preserving the integrity of the hive.
• Honey Refractometer: The honey refractometer is a valuable device for precisely measuring the moisture content of harvested honey. By maintaining optimal moisture levels, this tool safeguards the quality and longevity of honey, guarding against fermentation and spoilage.
• Propolis Traps: Propolis traps are crucial for maintaining hive hygiene and health. These advanced traps efficiently gather propolis while fostering a hygienic environment within the hive.
• Hive Monitoring Devices: Integrating technology into beekeeping, hive monitoring devices equipped with sensors and probes offer valuable insights into colony conditions. These devices provide essential data on parameters such as hive temperature and humidity levels, enabling beekeepers to make well-informed decisions and prioritize the health and productivity of their bees.

Advanced beekeeping equipment is transforming beekeeping practices by enhancing efficiency, productivity, and the prosperity of bee colonies. From managing the queen’s movements to supporting queen rearing and utilizing data-driven insights, the use of advanced tools elevates beekeeping practices and fosters successful beekeeping operations.

The Best Places to Purchase Bees and Nucs in New Mexico

Are you in the market for bees and nucleus hives (nucs) in New Mexico? Look no further. Here are some of the top locations to procure queen bees, packaged bees, and nucs in the state.

• Bee Clubs: Local bee clubs are a valuable resource when it comes to connecting with reputable suppliers of queen bees, packaged bees, and nucs. These trusted sources prioritize the quality and health of the bees you intend to purchase, ensuring a high level of satisfaction.
• Directly from Local Breeders: Another viable option for procuring bees in New Mexico is to buy directly from local breeders. This approach allows you to personally inspect the bees and their living conditions before finalizing a purchase, giving you greater peace of mind.
• Online Suppliers: For those who may not have local access to bees, online suppliers provide the convenience of purchasing bees from the comfort of your own home. However, it is essential to conduct thorough research and select a reliable supplier to guarantee the quality of the bees. Exercise caution when considering purchases from websites like Craigslist, as many offerings consist of old queens, substandard equipment, or potentially diseased bees.
• Farm Supply Stores: Another avenue to explore for sourcing beekeeping supplies in New Mexico is through farm supply stores. These establishments typically offer a variety of agricultural and livestock-related products, which may include essential beekeeping equipment.
• Beekeeping Conferences and Events: Beekeeping conferences and events are excellent opportunities to connect with bee suppliers and explore the option of purchasing bees and nucs. Furthermore, these events present valuable learning opportunities, with the chance to glean insights from seasoned experts in the field.

Whether you opt to engage with local bee clubs, directly support local breeders, explore online suppliers, visit farm supply stores, or attend beekeeping conferences and events, New Mexico provides a range of options for purchasing bees and nucs. By leveraging these resources, you can confidently make informed decisions when acquiring bees for your beekeeping endeavor

State Association

The state association is the New Mexico Beekeepers Association.

Here is a list of local bee clubs in New Mexico:

• Albuquerque Beekeepers
• Deming Beekeepers
• Eastern New Mexico Beekeepers
• Eddy County Beekeepers Association
• Four Corners Beekeeping
• Grant County Beekeepers
• High Plains Beekeepers
• Los Alamos Beekeepers
• Paseo Del Norte Beekeepers Association
• Pecos Valley Beekeepers Association
• Sacramento Mountains Beekeepers
• San Juan County Beekeepers
• Sangre De Cristo Beekeepers
• Southwest NM Beekeepers

Benefits of Joining a Local Beekeeping Club

Joining a beekeeping club offers numerous benefits for both new and experienced beekeepers. From access to valuable resources and support, educational opportunities, and community networking, to advocacy and conservation efforts, engaging with a beekeeping club can greatly enhance your beekeeping journey.

Conclusion

Equipping yourself with the right beekeeping supplies is essential for a successful and enjoyable beekeeping experience. In New Mexico, beekeepers have access to a diverse selection of beehives, protective gear, tools, and suppliers.

By investing in quality equipment and tapping into the knowledge of seasoned beekeepers, you can embark on an exciting journey to nurture and care for these extraordinary creatures while reaping the rewards of their incredible honey production. So, gear up and embark on your beekeeping adventure in the enchanting state of New Mexico!

FAQ’s:

Why is it important to use quality beekeeping supplies?

• Using high-quality beekeeping supplies is crucial for ensuring the health and productivity of your beehives. They provide a safe environment for the bees, help prevent diseases and pests, and facilitate effective management of the colonies, enabling you to optimize honey production.

What kind of protective gear is essential for beekeepers?

• Beekeepers should have a bee suit, including a hat with attached veil, protective gloves, and sturdy boots. This gear helps prevent bee stings and offers necessary protection when working with bees.

Where can I find reliable Beekeeping Supplies in Beekeeping Supplies New Mexico?

• There are numerous places to find bee supplies in Beekeeping Supplies New Mexico. You can check out local beekeeping supply stores, agricultural supply centers, or even online platforms dedicated to beekeeping equipment. It’s important to choose reliable sources that offer high-quality products to ensure the success of your beekeeping venture.

How should I choose beekeeping protective clothing?

• When selecting beekeeping protective clothing, prioritize safety and comfort. Look for a full-body suit or jacket made of durable, lightweight fabric that provides ample protection against bee stings. Ensure that the clothing has a veil or hood that securely covers your face and neck, as those are particularly sensitive areas. Additionally, gloves, beekeeping boots, and a hat can further enhance your protection.

What is the purpose of a queen excluder?

• The queen excluder separates the queen from specific areas of the hive, facilitating efficient honey extraction and maintaining a hygienic environment within the colony.

What tools are necessary for beekeeping?

• Essential tools for beekeeping include a hive tool (for prying open hives), a smoker (to calm the bees), and a bee brush (for gently moving bees without harming them). Additionally, a queen marking kit, an uncapping knife, and a honey extractor are useful for honey production.

Why is a honey refractometer important for beekeepers?

• A honey refractometer accurately measures the moisture content of harvested honey, ensuring its quality and longevity by preventing fermentation and spoilage.

What should I look for in a beekeeping supplier?

• When you are looking for the best beekeeping supplies in Beekeeping Supplies New Mexico, it is important to keep a few things in mind. First of all, you want to make sure that the beekeeping supplies you purchase are of the highest quality. It is also important to make sure that you are buying supplies from a reputable beekeeping supplier.