Above average temperatures and the threat of lower than average seasonal rainfall are signalling the systematic arrival of El Niño, as South Africans prepare to welcome summer.
As a natural climate pattern, El Niño is defined by above-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, its effects which have already caused devastation during the European summer months.
Equally, local meteorologists are warning that soaring temperatures may lead to droughts, wild fires and dwindling crop yields, which could threaten food security.
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The Eastern Highveld Beekeepers Association (EHBA) is also keeping a close eye on atmospheric changes, monitoring its effects on bee and pollinator populations.
According to EHBA chairman Pete Beart, the association is confident that local bee populations will weather the proverbial storm, however members are turning their attention to the overall temperament and behaviour of hives.
“Changing weather patterns have affected earth for millennia. Mother nature and all her creatures and critters have had to adapt and evolve in order to survive an ever changing climate,” he said.
“El Niño will definitely have an impact on nature and wild life, it will adapt much better than humans.”
Beart said the general consensus among EHBA beekeeping members is focussed on urban hives and ensuring community safety.
“According to a recent study, by the University of Pretoria, there are on average, 22 to 24 bee hives in a 1km² within suburban areas,” he explained.
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“Hives are established based of nectar-rich feeding grounds and under normal circumstances bees and humans coexist in harmony.”
With temperatures expected to rise amid mounting fears of water shortages, Beart continues to explain that bees are equally reliant on safe and clean water, as humans.
“They use water to regulate the temperature within the hives, maintaining the delicate biology of the hive, its honey and its off-spring,” he said.
“As with humans, even the slightest change in temperature causes discomfort and mood changes. We become testy when we are hot and bothered, so too do bees.
“For them though, heat can have a catastrophic impact on the hive’s health and its survival thus leading to panicky behaviour.”
Bearing the possibility of unpredictable behaviour in mind, the EHBA is urging members of the community who may have beehives in their gardens to opt to having them professionally and responsibly relocated, before temperatures start rising.
“It is important to note that bees are inherently not aggressive, however, they can become defensive it they feel threatened or the hive is experiencing stress,” he said.
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“These defences could then be directed at nearby animals or humans, which could lead to injury. Therefore preventative relocations are becoming a necessity.
“It is not about spreading panic and we are not advocating mass relocations. If members of the community are concerned we encourage them to contact reputable beekeepers for advice, do not attempt removals and avoid consulting the internet for bee removing hacks.”
Keep them hydrated
In order to assist bees in accessing water, Beart recommends placing shallow water dishes in and around your garden filled with pebbles thus ensuring safe landing spaces for the buzzing critters.
“Bees are also drawn to water features and swimming pools, because their breathing organs are located at the bottom of their bodies, falling into water results in drowning,” he said.
“If you have a couple of foam pool noodles lying around, cut it into rings and allow it to float on the surface.
“The rough texture will assist bees in climbing out of the water and onto the foam, should they fall into the water.
For more information or advice contact Pete on 063 689 3700.
