ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Prolonged rainfall and heavy humidity have trapped bees inside their hives in Erbil province’s Soran administration, threatening bee colonies and reducing honey production this year, local beekeepers said.
Beekeepers say bees have been unable to leave their hives for more than 50 days due to persistent rain and strong winds, forcing them to consume stored reserves instead of collecting nectar.
“For more than 50 days now, the weather has either been windy or rainy. When bees do not come out, they fall sick,” beekeeper Wasman Gardi said, adding that he has lost 25 hives.
“Some have lost 200 and some have lost 50. This year, the bees have produced nothing,” he added.
Although rainfall has brought flowers into bloom across Soran, beekeepers say the bees have been unable to reach them because moisture has weighed down their wings.
“Although the losses are very bitter, God willing the bees will recover,” beekeeper Omed Salih said.
“If we can preserve 20 to 30 hives this year, by May we will increase their numbers again. We may not get any honey production this year, but at least let their brood survive,” he added.
The Kurdistan Beekeepers Network has warned that bee colonies not moved to warmer areas face a heightened risk of death.
Beekeepers expect honey supplies in local markets to decline this year as a result of the losses.
Andam Jabar contributed to this article from Soran, Kurdistan Region.
