- In the year 2024, honeybees in Berlin witnessed an unusual increase in swarming activities.
This year, Berlin's honeybee colonies have been splitting frequently and producing new swarms, as per the Beekeepers' Association in the city. The early onset of the season has caused some beekeepers to set up honeycombs too late, resulting in bees swarming due to insufficient space, as per Melanie von Orlow, the association's chairwoman.
Consequently, several swarms have been relatively large. As a beekeeper shared, the heaviest swarm ever caught in mid-June weighed 5.5 kilograms, which is typically between 2 to 3 kilograms and houses around 10,000 to 20,000 bees. If you encounter a swarm, it's best to contact a local beekeeper for capture. The Beekeepers' Association has a list of swarm catchers available on its website for Berlin residents.
Surprisingly, despite the occasional cold snap, the overall honey harvest has been satisfying, as reported by von Orlow. The specific honey yield data will be disclosed at the end of the year. On average, each colony yields about 30 kilograms of honey. The Beekeepers' Association will be presenting awards for the finest Berlin honey at the Berlin Beekeeping Day on October 5, held at the Free University.
Berlin Swarm Collecting Beekeepers Association
Unfortunately, the increased swarming activity could have negative impacts on the urban environment, requiring more beekeepers for collection. To mitigate this issue and ensure the protection of the environment, it's crucial for residents to contact the Berlin Swarm Collecting Beekeepers Association for swarm handling.
