Course Number
JL03
Get your feet wet learning and practicing Instrumental Insemination (II). Participants will learn the theoretical and hands-on aspects of II through lecture, demonstration, and practice. By the end of the course participants will be familiar with the steps involved with collecting drone semen, necessary equipment and setup, trying their hand at insemination, and caring for and installing queens pre- and post-insemination.
Class Objectives
- Discover the fine details of reproductive processes that can be harnessed to improve queen quality to extend their longevity and productivity and therefore the productivity of the entire colony.
- Discuss changes in mated queens on different levels as they reach ovary activation – behavioral, physiological, and molecular.
- Understand the interrelationships of flight behavior, pheromone changes and gene expression post mating.
- Learn how to collect and store drone semen.
- Become familiar with the various types of II tools, methods, processes and equipment.
- Observe a demonstration of how to prepare the II rig and queen insemination.
- Review pre and post queen care and installation protocols.
Location Type
In-Person
Length (hrs)
8
Certification Levels
Journey
Beekeeping Experience Levels
Advanced
Recommended Prerequisites
Notices and Disclaimers
- Lunch is provided.
Photo Credits
Kathy Keatley Garvey