Italian bees (Apis mellifera ligustica) are one of the most popular and widely kept honey bee subspecies in the world. Originally from Italy’s Apennine Peninsula, they are now raised throughout North America and beyond. Today, much of the honey and royal jelly found on the global market is produced by Italian bees. Let’s explore how much honey they can make each year and why so many beekeepers prefer them.
1. Honey Production 🍯
Italian bees are famous for their productivity. A strong colony during a major nectar flow can produce well over 100 pounds of honey in a single season. With migratory beekeeping—moving hives to follow blooming nectar sources—annual production can reach several hundred pounds per colony.
By comparison, many native bee species produce only a small fraction of this amount, which makes Italian bees especially valuable for commercial and hobbyist beekeepers alike.
2. Key Characteristics of Italian Bees 🌿🐝
-
High Productivity ⚡: Excellent at producing both honey and royal jelly. A strong colony may yield 100+ pounds of honey per nectar flow and up to 1–2 pounds of royal jelly per year.
-
Strong Brood Rearing 👑: Queens are prolific egg layers, keeping large brood nests active throughout the season—even during hot summers or cooler autumn weather.
-
Low Swarming Tendency 🔒: Less likely to swarm than other subspecies, making colonies more stable and easier to manage.
-
Weaker Disease Resistance 🦠: More prone to American foulbrood, chalkbrood, paralysis virus, and Varroa mites. They also have weaker defenses against wasps and hornets.
-
Challenging Overwintering ❄️: Consume more food stores and may struggle in regions with long, harsh winters. They thrive best in milder climates or under careful management with supplemental feeding.
3. Why Beekeepers Love Italian Bees ❤️🐝
Despite their challenges, Italian bees remain the most popular honey bee in the United States. Their gentle temperament, high productivity, and adaptability make them a top choice for both beginners and professional beekeepers. With proper management, Italian bees can reward beekeepers with abundant honey harvests and thriving colonies year after year.
👉 MayBee Hives Tip: If you’re starting out with Italian bees, consider using our Starter Kit—designed for ease of use, durability, and healthy colony growth. Perfect for new and experienced beekeepers alike!
