Open mated in our best sites: we graft from our best stocks where the records show consistently good scores across several traits we monitor. These Queens are from imported Buckfast stock and open mated with our local drones, producing an F2 hybrid mix. We cross the next generations with pedigree Buckfast drone semen using Instrumental Insemination, after selecting the best lines over time.
 
We run 7-day inspections across all sites with detailed record keeping, giving deep insight into many areas of behaviour. Virgins are open-mated and assessed over 4 weeks (or more) before heading off to their new homes.
 
As these queens are laying and well into their 4th week, they can be added directly into nuclei or hives without many issues (local pick-up to reduce times is recommended).
 
We are lucky to be surrounded by good, solid local genetics.  90% of our open-mated queens become very good stocks. With just about the right amount of defensive behaviour to fend off unwanted pests without them becoming difficult to handle.