Can you keep bees in your backyard NSW?
Anyone with a bit of space in their backyard can get into beekeeping. With the introduction of the Flow Hive, there is no need to purchase expensive honey extraction equipment.
Where do bumble bees live?
Most bumble bees nest in hives in underground holes made by larger animals, while some nest above ground in abandoned bird nests, grass tussocks or cavities such as hollow logs or spaces beneath rocks.
Can you have bee hives in your backyard?
You can keep bees in your backyard – subject to the laws in the area where you live – but you need to make sure they have a clear flight path in and out of the hive. ‘Orienting the hive so that bees fly across a path, patio area or part of the garden which is used regularly is not a good idea,’ explains Pete.
Do you need a license to keep bees in NSW?
If you want to keep one or more hives of honey bees in NSW, you’ll need to be registered as a beekeeper with NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI), even if you’re already registered in another state or territory. You can apply and pay for your registration online.
What kind of bees live underground?
Among the groups of ground-nesting bees are sweat bees, mason bees, digger bees and leafcutter bees. Though they’re solitary and live the single life, these types of bees usually nest close to each other. Generally, ground-nesting bees aren’t interested in stinging you.
Do bumble bees burrow in the ground?
They are social bees, unlike other ground-dwelling bees, and they build underground hives. Not all species of bumble bee build their hives underground, though. Of those that do, the bees may burrow into the soil, or just repurpose the abandoned hole of a small rodent or other animal.
What do I do if my neighbor has bees?
Just stay still. Once a bee realizes you’re not a flower and have no sweet nectar or sugar water to offer, it will go peacefully on its way. If your neighbor invites you to observe their beehive, keep a safe distance. We generally recommend standing at least ten feet away and never directly in front of the entrance.
What to do if you have a beehive in your yard?
Call a professional to handle bee removal. If the bees in your yard are honey bees, it’s likely that a local beekeeper may be able to take them off your hands at little to no cost, depending on the location of the hive or swarm.
Can anyone keep bees in their garden?
Bees can be kept anywhere from country orchards to urban gardens to small city balconies. It is a common misconception that you need a large garden or countryside nearby. Although this can make siting your bees easier, urban gardens are arguably better. Nectar and pollen can be gathered from a wide variety of plants.
Do you need permission to have bee hives?
You may need a special permit, or they may be completely banned. Depending on where you live, you could be able to set up a hive in your yard without asking for permission from anyone. In other places you might need to notify or even get permission from your neighbors before you can start.
How much does it cost to register bees in NSW?
Cost of registration
| Business | Concession | |
|---|---|---|
| Online | $90 | $36 |
| Manual | $100 | $40 |
How do you identify ground bees?
These ground nesting bees can be identified by their fuzzy tan-colored head, pair of translucent wings, heart-shaped face, large compound eyes, and two segmented antennae. Ground bees are the shape of honeybees. Ground bees typically measure 0.5” (13 mm) long and are active between March and July.
What does NSW DPI do for beekeeping?
Beekeeping is a unique primary industry, depending on native flora for about 80% of its production. Nectar and pollen are produced seasonally and beekeepers must often move their hives large distances to be successful. NSW DPI supports the apiary industry with extension officers, research scientists, diagnostic laboratories,…
Are there any serious pests and diseases of honey bees in Australia?
There are many serious pests and diseases of honey bees that have the potential to devastate the Australian apiary industry. The Biosecurity Act 2015: helps control diseases and pests in apiaries in NSW.
What are the requirements to be a NSW beekeeper?
All NSW beekeepers need to adhere to the Australian Honey Bee Industry Code of Practice as a condition of registration. Beekeepers must meet minimum standards related to inspections, disease management, reporting, hive maintenance and record keeping. Owners of beehives can be traced using the registration system.
How do I report a honey bee pesticide event in NSW?
Practices to minimise damage to honey bees from pesticides are essential within programs developed by persons applying pesticides and by beekeepers operating apiaries in areas where pesticides are applied. Report a honey bee pesticide event in New South Wales by contacting the Environment Protection Authority on 131 555 or visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au.