It is now a widely known fact that our honey bees are under threat.  There has for some time now been an increasing amount of coverage on the television and in the press about the decline of the honey bee.  This article only scratches the surface but hopefully highlights a few of the issues and offers food for thought.

According to the British Beekeepers’ Association there are about 70 crops in the UK which either depend on or benefit from visits from bees.   On top of that bees pollinate the flowers of many other plants which are used as livestock feed.  Their economic value to the commercial industry in this country has been estimated at over £200 million a year.  To the consumer this means that approximately one third of the food we eat would not be available without bees.

Research is still being undertaken to fully understand the reasons behind the rapid decline of bee populations.  Some farming practices have been blamed and it has been suggested that pesticide residues may have an effect on the bee’s immune system making them more vulnerable to virus and infection.  Certainly the varroa mite has had a devastating effect on numbers to the extent that most wild honey bee colonies have died out.

According to Dr Ivor Davis, master beekeeper and past president of the British Beekeepers' Association there are various things we can do to help.  Among other things he suggests:

• Becoming a beekeeper.  The British Beekeepers’ Association offer low cost courses locally for anyone who would like to do this.   

• Keeping an eye out for swarms.  Bees swarm naturally and you may find one in your garden.  If you do contact the local authority straight away.  They will either arrange to come and collect it or contact a local beekeeper who will remove it for you and give it a good home. 

• Plant your garden with bee friendly plants.  There are a wide range of flowering herbs which bees adore so what better excuse could you have to plant a herb garden.  In addition, the majority of bee friendly herbs are also butterfly friendly too as well as encouraging other beneficial insects.  A great way to have your garden buzzing with wildlife.