Bees’ robbers invade the bee store in British Colombia

At the end of August, an unusual incident happened at the Rushing River bees in the British, British Columbia, when thousands of bees entered the Christine McDonald bee shop. The bees, which expose what is known to beekeeping as a “robbery” of behavior, have tried to feed stored honey and related products inside the building.

The robbery usually takes place outdoors when bees from one colony attack another colony to gain access to food supplies. It is often activated by a vacuum nectar, a seasonal shortage that occurs when spring flowers have faded, but autumn flowers are not yet in bloom. Under these circumstances, the larger or stronger colonies can resort to weaker colonies or, in rare cases, human -stored honey.

McDonald took immediate action to prevent damage. The jars and honey equipment were covered with tarp, while the lights stayed in the bathroom to divert the bees during this time. He later recognized and sealed a small gap in a door frame that gave the entrance.

The invasion continued for several days, but retreated when the bees were unable to gain access to food. According to McDonald, the number of bees was gradually decreased over a period of four to five days until they stopped returning completely.

Experts note that robbery behavior can create serious risks to colonies. Bee invasions can kill workers’ bees or queens, open candle cell tears to gain honey and spread strong smells that attract other insects such as wasp, doll and yellow jackets. These interactions can weaken or even destroy colonies if left uncontrolled.

The incident on the terrace depicts the effect of seasonal food deficiencies on bee behavior and the challenges facing beekeepers in protecting honey stocks. It also emphasizes the importance of securing installations and equipment during gaps nectar to prevent bee robbers invasions.