Raising Package Bees & Queens with Ray Olivarez (324)

Spring is here, and if you haven’t thought about your packages and queens yet, it’s time to act! In this episode, Beekeeping Today Podcast welcomes Ray Olivarez of Olivarez Honey Bees (OHB) to discuss the intricacies of raising high-quality queens and packages. Ray shares the fascinating journey of his family’s multi-generational beekeeping business, the logistics of safely transporting thousands of package bees across the country, and the meticulous selection process that ensures strong, productive colonies.

From the challenges of breeding mite-resistant bees to the latest advancements in bee transport and health, this episode dives deep into what it takes to deliver robust packages and queens to beekeepers nationwide. Ray also discusses OHB’s work with Saskatraz, Golden West, and Project Apis m. (VSH) breeding programs, as well as the newly available Dalan vaccinated queens aimed at preventing American Foulbrood (AFB).

Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or a beginner, you’ll gain valuable insights into what goes into producing and transporting high-quality package bees and queens. Join us for this engaging conversation and get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most respected queen and package producers in the industry!

Tune in now and learn how to start your season with the best bees possible!

Websites we recommend:

• Olivarez Honey Bees: https://www.ohbees.com/
• BTP Episode with Randy Oliver: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/318
   
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

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Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

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