Harry Owens, Chief Bee Inspector for the Isle of Man Government, spent two years meticulously looking through every colony of honeybees on the island to verify the belief that the Varroa Mite or either form of Foulbrood was not present. These are terrible parasites/diseases that are linked to the decline of Honeybees around the globe. Harry was right and after the legwork was complete, Manx bees were given special protection from the European Union and local government. This means that importing honeybees or used equipment is now illegal, a measure that is hoped will ensure our bees remain healthy.
This week it’s been revealed that this protection might be in danger due to the possibility of someone bringing in bees to the island. If this hive is not found and swiftly dealt with it could mean the death of half of the Isle of Man’s honeybees.
I interviewed Harry Owens about the issue we’re now facing and he’s hoping that someone will come forward before it’s too late. Watch the interview with Harry Owens. Though it’s illegal to bring bees in, any legal repercussions will be waived this time and the person who ordered in the bees will be set up with Manx bees. However, if the foreign colony stays hidden on the island, the diseases they bring with will result in permanent and catastrophic consequences for our local honeybees. Any bees from outside the Isle of Man will almost certainly have Varroa.
If you have any information, please contact Harry Owens at harryowens @ manx.net or ring him at +44 1624 801315 (home) or +44 7624 494246 (mobile)
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