A second small hive beetle has been detected in East Devonport, within 1.4km of the initial detection in early March. This detection does not indicate that small hive beetle is established in Tasmania.
Both specimens were found as part of Biosecurity Tasmania’s extensive monitoring program – this is an example of our world class biosecurity system working. Since the initial detection in early March, Biosecurity Tasmania has taken swift and decisive action, working alongside beekeepers, industry and the community to undertake thousands of beehive and trap inspections.
As a result of this detection, the current 10km Bee Movement Restriction Area will remain in place until further notice – map can be seen here Bee Movement Restriction Area interactive map.
While Biosecurity Tasmania will continue investigations, checking beehives and setting traps, with this detection, the response will now focus more on wild and unregistered beehives. It is now more vital than ever for all Tasmanian beekeepers to register because registration is one of our most powerful tools to protect against pests and diseases that threaten our bee population.
It is illegal to own beehives and be unregistered in Tasmania – fines do apply. However, a permanent amnesty applies for anyone registering beehives – you will not be fined for registering your hives. Registration is free, for more information or to register visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/beekeeper-registration.
If you are in the 10km Bee Movement Restriction Area and would like to open your beehives for feeding, honey harvest, removal of supers or winter pack down, please contact Biosecurity Tasmania on 6165 3777 to arrange a permit. Honey produced in Tasmania can be brought into the Bee Movement Restriction Area to be filtered and processed.
If you are outside the 10km area, restrictions no longer apply, meaning beehives can be opened and moved.
For more information on small hive beetle, please visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/SHB
Biosecurity Tasmania would like to acknowledge the exceptional level of cooperation from beekeepers, industry and the community during this emergency response.