Buckfast Breeding Principles

The Buckfast Breeding program, developed by Brother Adam, encompasses more than just creating a single line of Honey Bee. It is about following a set of breeding principles that have made Brother Adam's work so successful.

In this post, we will explore the importance of following these principles and how they can contribute to the success of beekeeping and honey production. 

The work of developing the Buckfast Bee was an endeavor begun by Brother Adam at Buckfast Abbey. However, the work did not end there. Several beekeepers who worked with Brother Adam during his lifetime have continued the work of preserving the Buckfast Bee.

The principles of Buckfast Breeding include selecting for desirable traits such as gentleness, resistance to disease, productivity, and overwintering ability. The breeding principles also focus on maintaining genetic diversity within the Buckfast Bee population to ensure its long-term health and vitality.

Additionally, Buckfast Breeding principles aim to continuously improve the Buckfast Bee through careful selection and controlled mating, ultimately creating a robust and adaptable honey bee that is well-suited for various environmental conditions. These principles have guided the ongoing work of beekeepers dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Buckfast Bee lineage.

Today's Buckfast Breeding Principles were developed directly from the work and many publications written by Brother Adam. They can be condensed down to the following principles:

1. Consistent breeding, where negative traits are culled out ruthlessly.

2. Judicious record-keeping, with the ability to track genetic lines.

3. Breeding and Selection must be flexible. The needs of today must be considered and incorporated into the strain while maintaing the inherent good traits of the line.

4. Resistance against pests and diseases is crucial. Effort should be made to improve the stock with regard to modern conditions.

5. Continuous testing and evaluation of the breeding stock is necessary to ensure progress and improvement.

6. Collaboration with other breeders and researchers to provide valuable insights and resources for enhancing the breeding program.

7. Education and outreach to beekeepers about the benefits and importance of selective breeding for resilient and healthy bee populations.

8. Prioritizing the conservation of diverse genetic traits within the bee population to maintain a robust and adaptable stock for the future.

Buckfast Breeding principles should be followed by beekeepers and breeders who are committed to maintaining and improving the characteristics of the Buckfast Bee. By adhering to these principles, beekeepers can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of this unique honey bee lineage, ensuring its continued success.

As we follow these principles in our own operation, we are working to improve the varroa tolerance of our Buckfast Bees. Currently, we see good resistance to trachael mites and nosema. Also, the Buckfast line demonstrates good hygienic traits, however varroa resistance is still in developmental stages.

In conclusion, following Brother Adam's Buckfast Breeding Principles are important because they help to maintain the positive traits of the Buckfast line and also contribute to the ongoing development of resistance to modern pests and diseases. By adhering to these principles, beekeepers can continue to improve the health and productivity of their colonies, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and successful beekeeping operation.