KARNICA
The KARNICA
strain of Carniolans is hardy and
productive bee. Unlike the history of the Italian strains, the early Carniolan
strains were often named after the breeders that worked so diligently to perfect
this beautiful bee. The name KARNICA is derived from the region of Upper
Carniola, the area for which the Carniolan bee is named.
Carniolan Bee
The Carniolan bee, A. m.
carnica is a dark European race of honey bee that originated in the region
of Yugoslavia, Rumania, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Austria. Some of the earliest
importations of the Carniolan bee into English speaking countries came from
Upper Carniola, hence the name Carniolan.
The Carniolan race is known
for its ability to withstand harsh winter temperatures and conservative use of
winter stores. Carniolans winter with a relatively small clusters, but build
rapidly in the spring when pollen and nectar become available.
Carniolans are excellent
honey producers for areas that have quick early honey flows. Colony population
is carefully regulated by pollen and nectar availability. Such a characteristic
is ideal for a harsh environment, but may not be ideal in certain areas.
Carniolans tend to reduce brood production in hot dry climates to the extent
that they may miss the fall honey flow.
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