SMOKE AND HONEY BEE HEALTH
Reduced Foraging & Disorientation:
- Bees fly less and navigate poorly in smoke, which reduces nectar and pollen intake.
- Disoriented bees may drift to other hives or become lost entirely.
Air Quality Stress:
- Even inside the hive, prolonged exposure to poor air quality can stress colonies.
- Hives already under pressure (from mites, low food stores, etc.) are at greater risk of decline.
Recommended Actions for Beekeepers in Smoky Areas:
- Minimize inspections unless absolutely necessary. Less disturbance = less stress.
- Feed supplemental syrup and pollen if natural forage is scarce.
- Check hive ventilation and ensure bees have fresh water nearby.
- Document hive conditions before and after wildfire events for insurance, research, or recovery planning.
- Establish and rehearse an apiary evacuation plan.
- Avoid preemptive hive moves unless you're in Level 3 or an evacuation appears imminent.
Need to Move Colonies?
- If your hives are in or near an active evacuation zone and you need assistance, email us and we’ll do our best to connect you with volunteer support or a safe temporary location: contact@cobkeeping.org
Stay safe out there and keep an eye on your bees.
Evacuation Support & Resources:
