As Connecticut’s – and the entire Northeast’s – black bear population continues to grow and expand its range, encounters between bears and managed beehives are becoming more common. A new fact sheet from UConn Extension provides beekeepers with science-based guidance for protecting their hives and reducing bear-related damage.
The fact sheet, “Protecting Beehives from Bears,” outlines practical, research-backed methods to safeguard beehives. These include using electric fencing, selecting strategic hive locations and minimizing attractants. It is a valuable resource for both hobbyist and commercial beekeepers navigating the challenges of maintaining healthy hives in bear-active areas.
“Bears are highly motivated by food sources, and beehives can be an irresistible target,” said Tracy Rittenhouse, a wildlife scientist with UConn’s Department of Natural Resources & the Environment. “Our goal is to help beekeepers implement proactive measures that protect their investment and promote coexistence with wildlife.”
This resource supports the state’s efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and protect vital pollinator populations that are essential to Connecticut agriculture and ecosystems.
The fact sheet is freely available online at s.uconn.edu/beehive.
