Native Stingless Bee Hives (Tetragonula carbonaria)

We are currently waitlisting orders for native beehives. Please email hello@happybee.com.au with your details and we will be in touch when stock is available in the Spring.

Bring pollinators into your garden with a live native stingless bee hive, perfectly suited to the Northern Rivers climate.

These gentle, fascinating bees are ideal for backyards, schools, and farms—offering excellent pollination without the need for protective gear or ongoing hive management.

What You Will Receive

• A healthy, established colony of Tetragonula carbonaria

• Supplied in a Davenport or Hudson hive box (based on availability)

• Perspex viewing port (under lid) for controlled inspection

• Active brood, pollen, and honey stores

• Established entrance and colony structure

Hive types are not interchangeable, and future splits or expansions must match the original box type.

• Designed for low disturbance and long-term colony stability

• Split-ready when colony strength allows

Viewing & Inspection (Low-Disturbance Design)

Each hive includes a perspex viewing window located beneath the lid, secured with screws.

• Accessed by removing the lid and loosening a small number of screws

• Designed for occasional inspection, not frequent disturbance

• Allows you to check brood structure and colony condition safely

This approach:

• Maintains internal temperature and humidity

• Reduces stress on the colony

• Supports stronger, more stable hives

Native bees thrive with minimal interference, and this design reflects that.

Installation

We do not offer installation for native stingless bee hives.

These hives are:

• self-contained

• low intervention

• designed to be placed and observed

We’re happy to provide placement guidance if needed.

Basic Product Overview

• Species: Tetragonula carbonaria (Australian native stingless bee)

• Temperament: Stingless and safe around people and pets

• Climate: Ideal for Northern NSW / subtropical regions

• Hive type: Davenport or Hudson (subject to availability)

• Maintenance: Low

Perfect for anyone wanting to support pollinators without the complexity of traditional beekeeping.

Caring for Your Native Bees

Native stingless bees are low-maintenance, but a few simple guidelines will help them thrive:

Placement

• Position in shade or dappled light

• Avoid direct afternoon sun

• Protect from strong wind and heavy rain

• Keep the hive stable and off the ground

Ongoing Care

• Avoid opening the hive unnecessarily

• Do not move the hive once established

• Ensure access to flowers and water nearby

• No feeding required under normal conditions

Seasonal Notes

• Most active in warmer months

• Reduced activity in cooler periods is normal

• Splitting should only be done when the colony is strong

Honey & Behaviour

• Produces small amounts of honey (high value, medicinal)

• Not suited to regular harvesting

• Best kept for:

  • Pollination

  • Garden health

  • Observation and enjoyment

Optional Add-ons

• Additional hive boxes (for future splits)

• Thermal covers (temperature protection)

Available on request — pre-order recommended

Hive Condition & Customisation

Each hive is supplied in a well-weathered Davenport box, just the way the bees prefer it.

• Colony date is written on the lid

• Boxes are intentionally seasoned for stability

• Cosmetic wear is normal and does not affect performance

These are working hives, not display pieces — and that’s exactly what makes them reliable.

Make It Your Own

You’re welcome to personalise your hive once installed:

• Paint the exterior (light colours recommended)

• Add external insulation if desired

• Install a small roof or weather cover

• Mount on a stand or post to suit your space

Just avoid blocking the entrance or disturbing the internal structure.

Why Choose Native Bees?

Important Notes

• Best suited to warmer climates like Northern NSW

• Avoid opening or disturbing the hive unnecessarily

• Do not split or interfere without guidance

• Hive type (Davenport or Hudson) will be supplied based on availability

Availability & Waitlist

Native bee colonies are seasonal and limited.

We operate a waitlist system rather than fixed stock availability.

Join the waitlist to be notified when colonies become available.