The Czech Republic has one of the highest densities of beekeepers and colonies in Europe. Apiaries are mostly small and run by part-time beekeepers, often using the Czechoslovak-style hive with a single brood chamber accessible from the top and back.
Scale and organisation
There are over 50,000 beekeepers in the country, with around half a million bee colonies. The Czech Beekeepers Union represents the vast majority of beekeepers and colonies. On average there is about one beekeeper and roughly ten hives per square kilometre in suitable areas.
Hives and bees
Czechoslovak-type hives typically hold up to 14 frames. Breeding focuses on the dark Carniolan bee (Apis mellifera carnica), which is well adapted to local conditions. Disease control is regulated; antibiotics are not used in Czech beekeeping.
Research and practice
The Bee Research Institute at Dol, established in 1919, has been influential in developing varroa control methods. Czech beekeeping has historically managed varroa with fewer colony losses than some neighbouring countries. Beekeepers can draw on this research and on support from the union and regional associations.
For honey types produced in Czech apiaries, see Types of Czech honey. For history and customs, see Beekeeping traditions in Czechia.