The planned blog for this week will be postponed so we can bring some information relevant to an immediate challenge in our region. Currently, across the Maritimes we are experiencing drought-like conditions. This is difficult for everyone, but we will discuss important considerations which relate directly to beekeepers. So, please read on for information to help keep honey bees healthy and beekeepers safe during this drought. Next week we will pick up with the scheduled blog on honey bee behaviour.
Beekeeping during a drought!
Warnings of fire bans and water
restrictions bring attention to the current drought-like conditions in the
Maritime region. For beekeepers, this
means additional vigilance when working our bees and increased focus on the
overall health of the colonies. It is
important to be mindful of how to support honey bees during drought, while also
practicing safe and responsible beekeeping.
Currently every province in the Maritimes
has a burn ban in effect. Nova Scotia has restricted travel and activities in
the woods until October 15 or until conditions change1. New
Brunswick and PEI both have province-wide fire bans as well 2,3. These restrictions must be considered by
beekeepers working in high-risk areas and using smokers.
During periods of severe drought, using a
traditional smoker can pose a significant fire risk, especially in dry
conditions where fire bans are currently in effect. In response, products have
been tested to try to find a flameless alternative to safely manage colonies
when beekeeping. The Apisolis Vaporizer uses essential oil vapor to calm bees
without flame. It is a rechargeable and non-toxic device that offers a safer
option during fire bans. While it is a useful tool, it does not fully replace
smoker’s effectiveness. Another option is Apimil ®, a water-diluted spray made
from essential oils and saccharides. This product helps reduce the bee’s
defensive behavior, especially if introducing a queen. It is applied directly
onto the colony with a light mist. Another smoke alternative is to use a 1:1
sugar water spray. Spraying this mixture lightly on the bees and frames can
distract them with grooming and feeding behavior, helping reduce aggression.
Although these options are not perfect substitutes for smokers, they can help
manage honey bees during times of high fire risk. For more details, check out
our previous blog on Alternative
Smokers .
Figure 2: Apisolis Vaporizer and Liquid for
the Vaporizer (ATTTA ©, 2025)
During periods of drought both the quantity
and quality of forage available to the bees decreases. Nectar flow will be reduced, and the nutritional
profile of pollen will change. It is
known that drought-stressed plants provide 10% less protein and 17% less
carbohydrates to honey bees 4.
This can have a direct impact on honey bee survival and longevity. The foraging range for both water and food
will increase during drought conditions, also having an impact on the bees
overall well being. Guidance on how to
manage bees during drought conditions is available in the ATTTA fact sheet: HOW DROUGHT
CONDITIONS IN THE MARITIMES CAN IMPACT HONEY BEES.
Beekeepers are encouraged, when inspecting
their colonies to identify signs of drought.
This can be dry brood (see figure below) which is a strong indication of
a lack of resources available to feed the larva. Also, colonies will slow down or stop brood
production during periods of dearth.
Worker bee will remove and cannibalize brood in extreme conditions. Beekeepers must also monitor colonies for
behavioural changes. During periods of
drought, with an increase in the risk of robbing, colonies may become defensive.
As drought conditions persist across the Maritimes, beekeepers must remain vigilant about fire safety and honey bee health. If dry conditions continue, be prepared to take proactive steps such as providing clean water sources, relocating hives to better forage and water access and feeding bees when necessary. Remember to stay alert, monitor your colonies closely, and support your bees as required until conditions improve!
Written by Kaitlyn Newton, ATTTA Seasonal Apiculturist
Connecting with ATTTA Specialists
If you’d like to connect with ATTTA specialists or learn more about our program, you can:
visit our website at https://www.perennia.ca/portfolio-items/honey-bees/
Email attta@perennia.ca
References:
1.
Government of Nova Scotia.
2025. Burn Restrictions. https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/