Beekeepers asked to watch for dangerous beetle

Tuesday, 2 May 2023 06:30

Beekeepers around the country are being asked to keep an eye out for a very small beetle that can cause big problems.

The small hive beetle is only 6 mm long and 3 mm wide – but can cause devastation if it infects a hive.

It comes from sub-Sahara Africa – but has been moving northwards as the climate warms. It’s now established in Calabria in southern Italy.

Although it hasn’t yet been detected in Switzerland – the Federal Veterinary Office believe it’s only a matter of time.

The beetle eats honey and pollen. Once in a beehive the colony either collapses or leaves.

Authorities say early detection is vital to control any potential outbreak.

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