Bierzo honey sector faces crisis from invasive species and low production

Beekeeping in the Bierzo region is facing a severe crisis characterized by four consecutive years of poor production and significant losses. Javier Morán, president of the Asociación Apícola del Bierzo, warns that between 300 and 400 beekeepers may abandon the sector due to ongoing economic instability.

The situation has been exacerbated by intense attacks from the invasive Asian wasp (Vespa velutina), with some producers reporting losses of nearly 90% of their bee colonies in just two weeks. Additionally, beekeepers are struggling with insufficient food reserves within the hives, necessitating supplemental feeding to ensure colony survival, alongside threats from local bear populations.

Industry representatives are calling on the Junta de Castilla y León to implement research and development programs to eradicate the invasive wasp and provide support to protect the activity, which holds significant importance for the regional economy.