Minnesota winters are characterized as having cold (below freezing) temperatures with an average total snowfall of 50.6 inches[iii]. Currently, almost all bees purchased by Northern beekeepers—typically from Southern migratory beekeepers-- have never experienced a northern winter. By definition, Southern bees exhibit genetic traits suitable for climates more temperate than that of the North. Moreover, the bees purchased from Southern migratory beekeepers have typically been exposed to the stressors of the commercial beekeeping pollination industry.

Bolton Bees breeds bees for the conditions of the North. We use the process of elimination to determine which Queens will produce progeny. We keep records about each of our 300+ hive's performance. Each level of elimination is designed for a specific trait to be evaluated: over-winter ability, high honey yield, low mite load, favorable temperament and hygienic characteristics. Only hives that pass each elimination are allowed to produce Queens, which we then “graft” into new hives—passing the improved genetics into the new colony. We then repeat the process—continually improving the genetics.

We have been successful in breeding MN-Hardy bees with select characteristics. Through natural selection, we have reduced unfit genetics. We had gradual success and had to endure major losses. As a result, we have gone from a 55% to a 93% overwintering success rate. We also have had success in breeding for high honey yield, low mite load, favorable temperament and hygienic characteristics.