Package bees and nucleus colonies are an alternative to life-changing moments when a swarm unexpectedly enters our lives. If we start with the purchase of a nucleus hive or a package of bees, our first beekeeping work will be easier to manage. It has been extremely rewarding that one of my most popular books, Increase Essentials, is now in its second edition. While I prefer to start with a nucleus colony, they are not always available. In fact, most new beekeepers have just one option: package bees.