Success StoryBeekeepers Learn Techniques for Protecting Colonies from Bears



Beekeepers Learn Techniques for Protecting Colonies from Bears

Author: Brian Jeffiers

Planning Unit: Johnson County CES

Major Program: Beekeeping

Plan of Work: Nutrition and Food Systems

Outcome: Initial Outcome

With black bears continuing to surge into eastern counties of Kentucky, more and more beekeepers are experiencing damage to their hives from foraging bears. In order to equip producers to protect their colonies, the Johnson County Extension Service offered an educational session on bear behavior. Taught by beekeeper Jayson Plaxico, a retired wildlife biologist with KDFWR, the session addressed exclusion techniques, sanitation steps, and cultural actions that discourage bears from staying in the area. Jayson also addressed bear behavior and highlighted research into bear movement patterns so that producers understood why bears were suddenly such a threat in the immediate area. A total of 13 beekeepers attended, with all reporting that they gained a greater understanding of how to fortify their hives against physical damage by bears.






Stories by Brian Jeffiers


Extension Guides New Farmer Into Successful Start in Syrup Production

about 5 years ago by Brian Jeffiers

In the years following the tobacco quota buyout and the end of the tobacco program, farms in Eastern... Read More


Farmers Learn Techniques for Combatting Black Vultures

about 5 years ago by Brian Jeffiers

One of the greatest threats to newborn calves is black vultures. These predatory birds are becoming ... Read More


Stories by Johnson County CES


Extension Guides New Farmer Into Successful Start in Syrup Production

about 5 years ago by Brian Jeffiers

In the years following the tobacco quota buyout and the end of the tobacco program, farms in Eastern... Read More


Farmers Learn Techniques for Combatting Black Vultures

about 5 years ago by Brian Jeffiers

One of the greatest threats to newborn calves is black vultures. These predatory birds are becoming ... Read More