Buckfast is a composite breeding stock developed at Buckfast Abbey, rather than a separate honey bee species or subspecies.
Know the breeding line
Its historical selection included tracheal-mite tolerance. That does not establish Varroa resistance. Temperament, productivity and disease traits vary with the breeder and subsequent mating; ask for current performance records.
Traits vary with breeding, mating, local conditions and management. A stock name does not guarantee temperament, winter survival or freedom from Varroa. Check breeder records and monitor your own colonies.
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The original sheet is shown above. The reviewed notes on this page clarify or correct its wording; the downloadable image has not yet been revised.
VarroaDestructor.com · BeekeepersLibrary.com · Reviewed October 14, 2026