The Effects of Cold and Wet Weather on Beekeeping and Honey Production
In the world of beekeeping, we often find ourselves at the mercy of Mother Nature. In New Zealand, our unique climate presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly when it comes to cold and wet weather.
The 2023 honey production season was a stark reminder of this. Wet and wild weather led to a total annual honey production of only 12,000 tonnes, down from 22,000 in 20221. This was the weakest production performance since 2012.
The relentless rain, especially in the north of the country, was a major factor. According to https://apinz.org.nz it resulted in an historically low yield of 14.4kgs per hive in the North Island, compared with 32.6kgs in the South Island. This was the first time in over ten years that the national yield was split evenly between the islands.
But why does this happen? Cold, wet weather can pose a significant risk of colony collapse if not properly managed. A hive that is too cold or too wet will struggle to survive the winter, potentially leading to the loss of the entire colony.
Bees are ectothermic creatures, meaning they rely on the environment to regulate their body temperature. In cold weather, bees cluster together in the hive to generate heat and protect the queen. However, if the hive becomes too cold or damp, the bees may not be able to generate enough heat, leading to a weakened colony and reduced honey production.
Wet weather also affects the bees’ ability to forage. Bees need dry weather to collect nectar and pollen. Extended periods of rain can prevent bees from leaving the hive, leading to decreased food stores and less honey production.
In New Zealand, our diverse flora offers a rich source of nectar for our bees. However, wet weather can wash away nectar from flowers, further reducing food sources for our bees. This is particularly impactful in areas abundant with mānuka trees, a major source of New Zealand’s world-renowned mānuka honey.
Despite these challenges, our bees are resilient. They’ve adapted to New Zealand’s unique climate over the years, and with our help, they’ll continue to thrive and produce the high-quality honey we all love.
As beekeepers, we need to be prepared for weather storms. Proper hive management and monitoring can help us mitigate the risks and ensure the survival of our bees. This includes providing adequate ventilation to prevent moisture build-up in the hive and ensuring the bees have enough food stores to survive the winter.
Looking ahead, forecasts for the current season are for hotter and drier weather, particularly in the east of New Zealand, which should prove to be more favourable for honey production.
In conclusion, while cold and wet weather can pose challenges for our bees and honey production, with proper management and a bit of kiwi ingenuity, we can weather the storm and look forward to a sweet and successful honey harvest.
Stay tuned for more insights from the world of beekeeping in New Zealand. Until then, keep buzzing!