Nationwide bee losses could lead to increased hive thefts, as demand for bees peaks in California's almond regions. Millions of bees are required to pollinate over 1.5 million acres of almond trees, primarily in the San Joaquin Valley. Beehives are transported from across the country for what is considered the largest mass agricultural pollination event globally. However, this year, beekeepers face one of the largest bee losses in 15 years. The exact causes remain undetermined, though previous losses have been linked to the Varroa destructor mite, pathogens, and pesticide exposure. The mite is a major threat to honey bees, capable of destroying entire colonies.
Hive theft has become more prevalent, with stolen hives rented to farmers or used for honey production. Hive rental rates range from $185 to $225 per acre, with many growers using two hives per acre. Last year, approximately 3,600 hives were stolen in the Valley, and the trend may worsen, according to rural crime detectives. "Hive theft has always been a thing, but we have never seen it like this," said Rowdy Freeman, a deputy with the Butte County Sheriff's Department/Rural Crime Task Force and a beekeeper. "Everyone is saying this year is probably the largest overwinter hive loss we have ever seen and we expect to see more hive thefts. Bees are in high demand."
The California State Beekeepers Association has initiated a prevention program to address hive theft, utilizing air tags, marked bee boxes, and cameras. Rocky Pipkin of the Pipkin Detective Agency in Fresno collaborates with the association to raise awareness. In a joint statement, leading bee industry groups described the losses as "alarming," noting that "these losses are severe, broad, and may impact food security through inadequate pollination services." Survey data from 234 beekeepers indicated average losses exceeding 50%, with financial impacts of over $139 million.
In California, some beekeepers report even higher losses. John Ballis from Sanger lost 80% of his hives. "This has been one of the worst years," Ballis said. In the Sacramento Delta, Adam Boujikian's losses reached 50%, despite typically losing 8%. Ryan Burris, president of the California State Beekeepers Association, highlighted potential bee shortages for almond and other crop pollination. "The situation is very unpredictable right now," Burris stated.
Fresno County almond grower John Chandler emphasized bees' importance for pollination, noting potential crop impacts from bee shortages or adverse weather. The Almond Board of California acknowledged hive losses and is collaborating with the USDA and beekeeping organizations to assess causes and provide support.
Source: The Fresno Bee