Do nukes come with queens? What are your thoughts?
Yes, a Nuc (not nuke BTW, the government would frown on you placing such an order
) are a small functional hive, as in the nucleus of a working hive, thus the term "nucs". They have a laying queen, drawn comb, brood and bees. They come in 3 and 5 frame as a standard, and most that you will find are deep size frames.
I know what you mean, the Mid-West seems to be a "blank spot" for large commercial bee producers; probably our crazy weather. The closest one to you (that I know of) is Jester Bee, I have never done business with them so I can not say any thing good or bad.
For sources close to you I would check at the local beekeepers meeting,
assuming you have joined (which you should, it is a wealth of info and resources). Someone there will have a source. Also many clubs will pool their orders and get a "truckload" of packages in the spring.
Like the others stated Grant is from near your neck of the woods, he will be more help than I will. PCM is even closer and I'd bet he would be able to get you in touch with some local folks.
Also there was an add on Craig's list for package bees in Springfield
link to ad and a source for Nucs in KC
link to ad 1,
link to ad 2. B Weaver apiary has some locations and dates for delivery of packages, but I know nothing more than the info in their ads in the bee mags (1(866) 547-3376 (M-Th, 10-2 CST) 16481 CR319, Navasota , Texas 77868 EMAIL:
[email protected]).
All in all, I bet you would be better off finding someone in your area through the local association. The bees are local and will be acclimated to your area.
My 2 cents, RKR
