Beekeeping Industry Overview, Threats & News

In this episode of Be Love Beekeeping, Eric and Bee Culture editor Jerry Hayes break down the aftermath of the 2024–25 winter honey bee die-off, where roughly 1.6 million colonies were lost.

They discuss how Varroa-spread viruses, weak mite management, nutrition challenges, climate stress, and migratory pollination all converged to push colonies past their limits. A central message emerges: beekeepers at every level must sample for Varroa, treat based on data, rotate treatments to avoid resistance, and sample again.

The conversation expands to new pressures on beekeeping, including yellow-legged hornets, the lingering threat of Asian giant hornets, and the growing spread of Africanized genetics—with Jerry sharing firsthand experiences from his work in Florida.

They also touch on emerging hive designs, insulation, and other equipment aimed at helping bees cope with harsh weather and environmental stress.

Despite the challenges, the episode highlights reasons for optimism: strong support from scientific organizations, state inspectors, and reputable beekeeping groups, along with better tools and research than ever before.

The takeaway? Beekeeping is demanding, but with reliable information and committed management, there’s still plenty of hope—and love—in the apiary.

VIDEO VERSION: https://youtu.be/PzqT5yIzU34

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Jerry-Bee Culture Magazine: https://beeculture.com/

Almond Milk Article: https://farmonaut.com/usa/almond-milk-kills-bees-5-shocking-ca-impacts

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