Robber bees invade apiary shop in British Columbia

In late August, an unusual incident occurred at Rushing River Apiaries in Terrace, British Columbia, when thousands of honeybees entered the shop of beekeeper Christine McDonald. The bees, exhibiting what is known in apiculture as “robbing” behavior, attempted to feed on stored honey and related products inside the building.

Robbing typically takes place outdoors when bees from one colony attack another colony to access food supplies. It is often triggered by a nectar gap, a seasonal shortage that arises when spring blossoms have faded but autumn flowers are not yet in bloom. Under these conditions, larger or stronger colonies may resort to raiding weaker colonies or, in rare cases, human-stored honey.

McDonald took immediate measures to prevent losses. Honey jars and equipment were covered with a tarp, while lights were left on in the bathroom to divert the bees into that space. She later identified and sealed a small gap in a door frame that had provided entry.

The invasion persisted for several days but subsided once the bees were unable to access food. According to McDonald, the number of bees diminished gradually over a four to five day period until they stopped returning altogether.

Experts note that robbing behavior can pose serious risks to colonies. Invading bees may kill worker bees or queens, tear open wax cells to access honey, and spread strong scents that attract other insects such as wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets. These interactions can weaken or even destroy colonies if left unchecked.

The incident in Terrace illustrates the impact of seasonal food shortages on bee behavior and the challenges faced by beekeepers in protecting honey stocks. It also highlights the importance of securing facilities and equipment during nectar gaps to prevent robber bee invasions.