Hampshire Beekeepers’ Association

The Hampshire Beekeepers Association (HBA) was established in 1883, along with the Isle of Wight Beekeepers Association (IWBKA). Initially, they were a joint association, known as H&IWBKA. Later, the Isle of Wight became a separate association. HBA is one of the largest associations in the country and has been operating for 141 years.

HBA Library Services

The HBA library, established in 1884, is a valuable resource for HBA members who want to learn more about beekeeping. It contains thousands of books on various aspects of this fascinating hobby.

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HBA Honey Show & Convention

Being a HBA member, you can attend various events such as the Hampshire County Honey Show and Convention, Bee Health Day, Winter Talks and others.

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HBA Members Area

Being an HBA member grants you full access to the members’ area, which is password protected. There, you can enjoy exclusive promotions and discounts, as well as learning and best practice resources.

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County Events

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Local Associations

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Membership

Membership Includes

Bee Disease Insurance

Local Beekeeping Associations

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Associations

New beekeepers can join one of the fourteen local associations in Hampshire, which offer various benefits and opportunities. These include apiary training days, support for BBKA Exams and Modules, and social events such as BBQs and Christmas Dinners. By joining an association, you become part of a support network that will help you throughout your beekeeping journey.

The History Of HBA

Founded 141 years ago, Hampshire is one of the largest beekeeping associations in the country. Discover more about Hampshire Beekeepers Associations.

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Beginners Courses

Whether you want to become a beekeeper or simply learn more about honeybees, you can join one of the beginner’s courses offered by our 14 local associations near you.

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Improvers Courses

If you are a Hampshire Beekeeper and you want to improve your skills, you can check out the local associations that offer courses for improvers.

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BBKA Modules & Exams

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced beekeeper, the BBKA can help you enhance your knowledge and skills with various modules and courses. Enjoy the benefits of this rewarding hobby.

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Yellow Legged (Asian) Hornet

The Yellow Legged (Asian) Hornet (aka Vespa Velutina) is a threat to the UK. This page will help you recognize them, report them and safeguard yourself and your honeybees. You will also find public resources and general information here.

Online Reporting
Learn more.

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Credit: Picture from Bayer @ researchbayer.com 

Varroa Mite

The Varroa Destructor Mite is a common pest that affects many bee colonies in the United Kingdom. You can protect your bees from this threat by following an Integrated Pest Management Plan. Learn how to implement this plan and keep your colonies healthy.

NBU Record →
Learn more.

BBKA News

  • BBKA Honey Show Judges
    For those arranging a Honey Show and needing a Judge here is the link to the list of BBKA Show Judges: Show Judges List 
  • Planting 150 Year Anniversary Trees
    In 2024 all member Associations and Branches have been given the opportunity to plant sesquicentennial trees in their apiaries, funded by the BBKA as part of the 150 year celebrations.  Honey bees, bumblebees and many other species depend on trees for food, and the BBKA trees will last well into […]

The Apiarist

  • Beekeeping records
    Unless you have just one hive (and even then, you should), or a prodigious memory, you will need to keep records of your hive inspections. What are the options? Cryptic, analogue, digital, app, in hive or at home?
  • Informed decisions
    Beekeeping is all about making informed decisions, some of which involve calculated risks. Are there ways to improve the decision-making process?

NBU News

  • Honey bee starvation
    Starvation of honey bees – recognition and prevention During prolonged cold, wet periods and/or when there is a lack of forage, honey bee colonies may use up all their honey or sugar stores. This can frequently happen in spring when colonies are using up their last remaining winter stores to rear […]
  • Asian Hornet Sightings Update
    Two further Asian hornet queens have been found by the NBU in traps set as part of the spring trapping work being carried out.Both hornets were found in a single trap near Four Oaks, Kent, with one being found on 22nd April and a second hornet found on 24th April.A […]

Members Blogs

Members of Hampshire Beekeepers Association share their insights and experiences on beekeeping through blogs. These blogs are intended for beekeepers from the fourteen local associations affiliated with Hampshire Beekeepers Association.

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Contact HBA Support

If you encounter any mistakes or missing information on the website, or if you want to contribute a blog or article to the website, please reach out to support.

webmaster@hampshirebeekeepers.org.uk

Recent Posts

  • Yellow Legged Asian Hornet Information Film (A Must Watch)

    Yellow Legged Asian Hornet Information Film (A Must Watch)

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    Richard Skinner

    The BBKA is proud to premiere its new yellow-legged Asian hornet information film. Asian Hornet Information Video Please note that HBA does not endorse the use of traps that catch and kill all pollinators. Please do your research as there are other traps that promise no bycatch and therefore help…

  • Swarm Season 2024

    Swarm Season 2024

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    Richard Skinner

    It appears that swarm season is upon us with many of our members reporting that their bees have built up strongly over winter. Along with the bad weather beekeepers have been unable to check their hives before now. If you do find that you have a swarm of honeybees in…

  • New Forest BKA – Honey Bee Nosema Check Day

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    Richard Skinner

    Join us for a buzzing day of checking honey bees for Nosema, a common fungal infection. This in-person event will take place at Colbury Church Rooms. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just starting out, this event is perfect for all bee enthusiasts. Learn how to identify, and gain valuable insights…

British Beekeepers Association

For 150 years, the British Beekeepers Association has been serving beekeepers since its formation in 1874. Learn more about its history and achievements here.