Beekeepers asked to watch for dangerous beetle

Tuesday, 2 May 2023 06:30

Beekeepers around the country are being asked to keep an eye out for a very small beetle that can cause big problems.

The small hive beetle is only 6 mm long and 3 mm wide – but can cause devastation if it infects a hive.

It comes from sub-Sahara Africa – but has been moving northwards as the climate warms. It’s now established in Calabria in southern Italy.

Although it hasn’t yet been detected in Switzerland – the Federal Veterinary Office believe it’s only a matter of time.

The beetle eats honey and pollen. Once in a beehive the colony either collapses or leaves.

Authorities say early detection is vital to control any potential outbreak.

More from Bitesize News

Students occupy Lausanne Uni building

Students have barricaded themselves in a building at the University of Lausanne.
Teens with suspected IS links released

Two teenagers who had been arrested over Easter, suspected of having links with Islamic State and helping to plan explosive attacks in the country, have been released.
Crash causes major delays

Geneva police are appealing for witnesses after an accident in town caused major delays yesterday morning.
Hospital says it will treat the newly uninsured

The Hôpital de la Tour in Meyrin says it will continue to treat patients that are insured by Groupe Mutuel until July.
Big storm hits small town

A massive, but isolated, storm hit the town of Flawil in canton Sankt Gallen yesterday afternoon.
Geneva Marathon means more disruption

The Geneva marathon is on this weekend and the TPG says many public transport routes will be severely disrupted.