Now taking orders for 2025 Nucs

If you've found your way here, it's likely you are searching for a better bee. Or maybe just wondering if there is such a thing. Perhaps you've come across the term varroa sensitive hygienic (VSH) bees, sparking your interest and prompting a desire to learn a bit more.

Whether you're a novice beekeeper looking to purchase your first bees or a seasoned beekeeper tired of buying bees each spring, I believe you've come to the right place. I've dedicated significant effort over the past few years to provide precisely that.

It is essential to recognize that not all bees are created equal. The genetics of the queen and the colonies acclimation to our harsh winter climate are two critical factors that profoundly impact a beekeeper's success. In addition to adhering to sound beekeeping practices, the integration of varroa sensitive hygienic (VSH) genetics with locally acclimated bees offers the best opportunities for successful bee overwintering.

It is in these two areas—genetics and overwintering—that I bring to your attention advantages that are often overlooked when acquiring nucs.

#1 - Quality Overwintered Nucleus Colonies

Winter-hardy! My bees are overwintered in my apiary in northern Illinois year-round. They are survivors!

#2 - VSH Varroa Sensitive Hygienic Queens

My queens possess VSH varroa sensitive hygienic genetics, ensuring healthier and more resilient bee colonies.

#3 - My Personal Commitment

I am committed to your success! Nothing brings me greater joy than a happy customer. Experience the satisfaction of successful beekeeping, as many others have.

Why my nucs are superior

5 frame Nucs

There are two things that differentiate my nucs from that of others. Most importantly, a proven quality queen with superior genetics supported by a colony of bees that share those genetics and are survivors of our long and cold winters.

Anybody can keep bees in the warmer months. The test is to get them through the winter. My bees will give you the best chance!

In this case you do get what you pay for!

The difference starts here

Quality Queens with Quality Genetics

It's a bit like building a house. Would you go cheap on the foundation? Every single bee in that colony of thousands are descendants from your queen and the drones that inseminated her! That is where your focus should be! She is the moneymaker. There is a difference. Start with a solid foundation.

Find out what makes my queens special and the process that is involved.

About Big Bub's Bees

I am dedicated to providing high-quality bee nucs for beekeepers in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. My ongoing commitment to selectively breeding VSH queens for increased varroa resistance, survivability, disease resistance, egg production, and temperament, along with overwintered nucs acclimated to the cold and harsh winters of the region, leads me to believe this is the most effective method to achieve these goals.

I invite you to enhance your chances of becoming a beekeeper rather than a bee buyer.

Hi, I'm John and this is Frankie.

Here's what my customers say

"As a new beekeeper my first bees came from Big Bub's Bees. Once they were moved to their new home, they quickly outgrew a single full box and ended up filling two full boxes and even underwent a split before winter.

Big Bub's has been very helpful in explaining the process of beekeeping and has guided me through the many questions I have had."

Mitch T, Rockford Il

Thanks Mitch! First year overwintering success and you even did a split! Fantastic!

”Overwintered NUC'S, queens that have been bred for varroa resistance make John a great choice for your bee packages! The best part is that John is always willing to help and give advice!”

Tom M, Antioch Il

Tom, it's been a pleasure. It's so rewarding to see you successfully get your bees through winter! It's given you the confidence to move forward and expand your apiary. That's pretty special!

"John was instrumental in getting me started in beekeeping. And what truly sets John apart is his ongoing support. Even after purchasing bees, his mentorship continued to be an invaluable resource. Whether it is troubleshooting hive issues or just a question about bees, he is always just a phone call away. He prioritizes the health and well-being of his bees, offering only the highest quality, disease-free colonies as well as VSH Queens. I highly recommend him and his bees to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and supportive supplier/mentor in the world of beekeeping."

Dylan H, Harvard Il

Thanks Dylan! It's great to share successful beekeeping practices and meeting fine people in the process.

"Having John as my beekeeping mentor was great. Despite his busy schedule, he always promptly answered my questions and provided guidance. The bees were healthy from day one, actively collecting pollen. Remarkably, they survived the challenges of our Midwestern winter, despite it being my first year beekeeping."

Rob N, McHenry Il

Unfortunately, Rob's bees died in the summer as a result of pesticides at his location so he's decided to not keep bees for for the time being. It was a tough choice because he really enjoyed them. Thanks Rob!