More than 800,000 bees stolen across far north Queensland in ‘sophisticated’ operation
Apiarists will lose not just the insects but the value of pollination contracts, which can be worth thousands of dollars Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast An estimated 800,000 bees, worth tens of thousands of dollars, have been stolen from properties in far north Queensland. The industry is already reeling from the…
In a sophisticated operation, more than 800,000 bees were stolen from various properties across far north Queensland, causing significant financial losses for apiarists. The stolen bees, worth tens of thousands of dollars, are valued for their role in pollination, which can generate substantial income for growers. Tom Bidner, an apiarist from the Atherton Tablelands, reported 44 colonies being taken from three different beekeepers.
The thieves acted with precision, removing the brood box containing the bees without triggering any alarms. The stolen bees were not accompanied by honey, which was left intact on the hives. Experts suspect the culprits may be insiders from the industry. The theft comes on the heels of the arrival of the varroa mite parasite, which has already cost the region over $100 million in prevention efforts.
The mite's rapid reproduction in brood boxes further endangers the bee populations, making it crucial for apiarists to remain vigilant despite the recent thefts.
Written by urgent.news from The Guardian Australia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
