Impact of Asian Honeybees in Australia

Aussie Bee Homepage > Asian Honeybee Crisis > Asian Honey Bee Impact

1. These aggressive feral bees are competing with native bees, birds and mammals for food and nesting sites.

'The impact of Asian bees on Australia’s ecology is likely to be highly significant. There are hundreds of native animals that consume nectar and/or pollen as part of their diet. Asian bees will be a significant competitor for nectar and pollen plus occupy small cavities displacing native birds and possums.'
Source: NSW Government factsheet (Industry & Investment NSW, 2010)

2. As they become established in urban areas, they are also likely to become a serious nuisance to the public.

'The density of Asian bee colonies is said to be three times greater than honey bee colonies. The propensity of Asian bee colonies to swarm several times per year and their preference for human habitation areas will create significant public nuisance costs in the form of swarm removal and increased levels of stinging events.'
Source: NSW Government factsheet (Industry & Investment NSW, 2010)

3. Furthermore, these feral Asian honeybees threaten Australia's $80 million honey industry and pollination services worth up to $7 billion.

'They will be major competitors for nectar and pollen, thus reducing the honey crops produced by honey bees. Given the evidence gathered in the Solomon Islands, they are also likely to invade honey bee colonies to rob their stored honey during periods of no natural nectar supply. Asian bees are also potential hosts of varroa mites, which are extremely devastating to honey bee colonies.'
Source: NSW Government factsheet (Industry & Investment NSW, 2010)

More Information

Asian Bee will Devastate Australia's Honeybees:
Detailed article in Cosmos Magazine on likely impacts of this new feral bee pest on our honey industry and our urban homes and gardens.

NSW Government Asian Honeybee Factsheet

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