In a 2023 webinar, Colm O’Neill shed light on sustainable beekeeping practices cantered around the preservation and utilization of native honey bees, specifically Apis mellifera mellifera (AMM), or the European Dark Bee. Colm’s approach emphasizes working with nature rather than against it, focusing on fostering strong local adaptations that allow bees to thrive in their natural habitats without heavy interventions. His insights align with the BIBBA (Bee Improvement and Bee Breeders Association) and the B4 project in the UK, which advocates for using locally adapted bees to maintain the health and resilience of regional populations.
A cornerstone of Colm’s methodology is using high-density colony management and strategic brood rotation. By keeping colony numbers strong and rotating brood frames frequently, beekeepers can minimize disease build-up and maintain a workforce ready for peak honey production. This approach also naturally limits swarming, reducing the need for artificial interventions that could disrupt colony harmony.
Colm also highlighted the importance of selective breeding. Choosing queens and drones with traits such as disease resistance and low swarming tendencies reduces dependency on chemical treatments. This method strengthens bee populations over time, supporting Varroa resistance and other natural defences, which are especially vital in untreated, chemical-free systems.
Ultimately, Colm’s message is about sustainability: rather than importing non-native bees or relying on short-term fixes, he advocates for practices that respect and work within the bees’ natural behaviours. His approach not only enhances productivity but also supports biodiversity and long-term resilience, reflecting a deep commitment to ecological beekeeping.