Bees in Bear County
If a beekeeper lives anywhere near bears, it is important that they know how to protect their hive. In the United States, specifically in the west coast, Northeast regions, in the Rocky Mountains, and some parts of Alaska, black bears are the most common type of bear that beekeepers need to worry about. Most black bears are timid and not very dangerous, and they generally avoid humans.
There are small parts of Montana, Yellowstone National Park, Utah, and Washington that have grizzly bears as well. Grizzly bears are much more aggressive than black bears and are more likely to defend themselves when threatened. Since bear habitats are dwindling but bear populations are expanding, the chances of them feeding on beehives is higher than ever.
Bears love Honey!
Bears are very attracted to honey and bee brood, and if they cannot find sufficient food they may give a hive a nighttime visit. Both black and grizzly bears love honey, and grizzly bear populations are rising in the Northwest so now beekeepers need to make sure to keep an eye out for both.
Spring and fall are the seasons bears are most likely to feed on a beehive, but hives are vulnerable any time of the year. In the spring they have just awoken from hibernation, and in the fall they are storing food to prepare to go into hibernation. Bees will tear apart your hive boxes in the process of feasting on honey and brood, so they can cause a serious financial loss.
Practices to Help Beekeepers Keep Bears Away
Hives should be placed far away from the woods since bears are more wary of going in open spaces without cover, and if bear activity is spotted nearby, hives should be relocated. Beekeepers can camouflage their hive by painting it a green or brown color to blend in with nature. Honey should be harvested as early as possible after nectar flows to ensure bears won’t be as tempted to feed on the hive, and debris around the hive should be kept minimal. Beekeepers can also contact their state’s Wildlife Services Office.
Electric Fence for Bears
If a bear feeds on your hive once, they will most likely do it again so it is important to have proper set up and equipment in place. The same equipment will protect hives from black bears and grizzly bears. One of the most successful ways that beekeepers keep bears from feeding from their hive is by installing electric net fencing. Electric fencing will keep out other types of animals including skunks, opossums, raccoons, and dogs. The electric fence should have a 70 amp-hour battery or minimum voltage output of 3,000 volts to keep bears away.
Bear-Resistant Platforms & Motion-Activated Devices
A lesser effective but more affordable option is a bear-resistant platform, which should be at least 2 meters above the ground. A platform should have an overhang more than two meters above the ground which will prevent bears from being able to access the hive, and it has other benefits as well. Motion detectors can also scare away bears by emitting loud sounds, flashing lights, or spraying water, but they should be used in addition to other bear deterrents.