Human-Bear Conflicts

Beehives

Damage to apiaries can be extensive and very costly if action is not taken quickly.  Due to the potential for significant monetary loss, the KDFWR strongly recommends all bee yard owners to follow the guidelines below. 

• Locate bee yards away from forest edges and riparian areas (river bottoms, creek drainages).
   

• Surround bee yards with at least 2 strands of electric fencing, with the lowest wire no more than 15 inches from the ground.
   

• Use solar chargers as a power source if bee yards are left unattended for extended periods.
   

• Be certain to face solar chargers so as to receive the most sunlight.
   

• Clear growing vegetation away from the lowest as this will ensure a closed circuit and render maximum charge upon contact with the fence.
   

• Bears are incredible diggers- irregularities in terrain should be filled in with heavy debris so as to prevent bears from crawling under low points.
   

• Clear overhanging branches from bee yards to prevent bears from climbing into fenced areas.
   

•  Immediately notify the KDFWR of any bear damage to beehives.

Extensive research has shown electric fencing to be extremely effective at deterring nuisance behavior by bears.  Additionally, costs associated with the installation of an electric fence can be minimal when compared to potential losses in money by destruction of honey and bees.