Photo by Scott Bauer, USDA/ARS
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has confirmed the presence of Africanized honey bees in Barbour County earlier this week. The identification was confirmed after local beekeepers collected a feral swarm. The swarm was humanely euthanized in an effort to protect Alabama’s honey bee populations.
Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, Rick Pate said, “There is no reason for public concern at this time, but we are treating this situation seriously. Our team is actively collaborating with local beekeepers and entomology experts to ensure swift detection and appropriate response. Protecting both the health of our communities and Alabama’s honey bee populations is our top priority.”
As a precaution, the department is implementing a targeted effort to assess and contain the presence of Africanized honey bees in the area with traps being deployed within a 5 mile radius of the detection site. The department is also providing guidance to local beekeepers on how to identify and manage any Africanized honey bees, along with the department collecting samples as needed for surveillance and risk assessment.
According to the department, Africanized honey bees differ than their European counterparts in that they are more defensive and may respond in greater numbers, may swarm more frequently and nest in a variety of locations, and may pursue perceived threats farther than European honey bees. The department is recommending that the public do not attempt to disturb or remove any bee colonies or swarms. Report unusually aggressive bee behavior to the department. If you believe you’ve encountered Africanized honey bees, contact the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries State Apiary Protection Unit at 334-240-7228 or 334-240-7172 to make a report or find out more information. The department is also sharing its registered beekeeper referral list here.