Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Massive Bee Thefts Across Northern Australia Linked to Parasite Spread

Over 800,000 bees, valued in the tens of thousands of dollars, have been stolen in sophisticated heists across far north Queensland, Australia. The thefts raise concerns for regional food production, which relies heavily on pollinators.

The scale of the bee disappearances has escalated, with initial estimates of 500,000 rising to over 800,000. Beekeepers face devastating losses impacting honey production and pollination contracts.

Experts believe experienced apiarists are responsible, given the specialized knowledge and equipment needed to remove entire brood boxes without immediate detection.

These thefts occur amidst the widespread detection of the varroa mite, a parasite that can kill honeybee colonies within three years. Australia has battled the mite since its detection in June 2022.

The varroa mite poses a significant threat to Western honeybees. Its proliferation in Queensland, NSW, and ACT has shifted management burdens onto apiarists.

Beekeepers describe the combination of theft and varroa mite infestation as a "double whammy," diverting resources from parasite management.

In May, approximately 80 hives, worth an estimated $150,000, were stolen from properties in New South Wales, indicating a concerning trend.

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