Global bee shortage should not worry SA

Globally, the fate of bees and their important role in pollination and food production has been in the spotlight.

Ferndale resident and local bee expert, Gorges Lenferna spoke about the importance and cultivation of bees in our environment at the Ferndale Residents’ Association’s Christmas fete on 2 December.

Lenferna said, “Bees are a major part of our environment. In order to survive, these bees need to be saved because it could result in worldwide food shortages.”

“Overseas, the majority of the bee population has been destroyed by uncontrolled pesticide spraying and viral mites. Luckily, South African bees have not run into the same problem. We have the healthiest type of bees in the world.”

The smaller European bee has fallen prey to viral mites, which according to Lenferna weakens bees.

“In other countries, our type of bee is called an Africanised Killer Bee and it got this name due to the way that it defends itself specifically against pests and other threats.

“The way that Europe and America can fix this problem is to cultivate stronger colonies of African bees, which don’t suffer from the effects of the viral mites.”

Lenferna argued that the greatest threat to these populations is habitat loss and lack of cultivation, as most wild bee species rely on specific habitat structures, as well as plants and nesting sites.

“Our biggest problem in South Africa is the lack of beekeepers. We need beekeepers who care about bees and do it with love and passion.

“Until we reach an acceptable amount of beekeepers, ordinary citizens have to make sure that bees are properly cultivated in their own spaces.”

He urged everyone to contribute to the cultivation of bees simply by taking care of their own garden.

“The most beneficial and easiest plants for your garden are always natives. Native plants can be found naturally in your particular region, so they are specially adapted to the local growing conditions, wildlife and climate.

“It is highly important that you keep indigenous plants in your garden that bees are used to in order to cultivate the bee population.”

Bees also have excellent colour perception so it is best to mix up your blooming colours. They especially love blues, purples, whites and yellows.

Through his efforts, Lenferna’s personal beekeeping initiative has produced more than four tonnes of honey this year alone.

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