Queensland bee theft: 800,000 bees stolen in organized operation

An estimated 800,000 bees have been stolen from beekeeping operations in far north Queensland, Australia, in what authorities describe as a sophisticated and organized criminal operation. The theft, which involves approximately 44 colonies across multiple properties, is estimated to be worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Beekeepers, including Tom Bidner of FNQ Honey and Bees, report that the thieves used specialized equipment to remove only the brood boxes, leaving the hives appearing intact from a distance to avoid immediate detection. The culprits reportedly left the honey behind, focusing solely on the livestock. This method suggests the perpetrators may have professional knowledge of the industry.

The incident occurs as the region's agricultural sector is already under pressure from the arrival of the varroa mite parasite. Beyond the loss of the bees, apiarists face significant financial hits from the loss of lucrative pollination contracts, which are currently in high demand for the avocado and blueberry seasons. Local growers may also suffer from reduced pollination quality.