The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) has confirmed the presence of Africanized Honeybees (AHB) in Barbour County.

The ADAI confirmed the presence of the bees following the collection of a feral swarm by local beekeepers. The swarm was euthanized in an attempt to protect Alabama’s honeybee populations. ADAI is also implementing targeted monitoring efforts throughout the state to assess and contain the presence of any other AHBs in the area. 

“There is no reason for public concern at this time, but we are treating this situation seriously,” said Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries, Rick Pate. “Our team is actively collaborating with local beekeepers and entomology experts to ensure swift detection and appropriate response. Protecting both the health of our communities and Alabama’s honeybee populations is our top priority.”

Local beekeepers are currently being contacted and provided with guidance on how to recognize and manage Africanized Honeybees. ADAI will also collect samples as needed to support through surveillance and risk assessment. 

Africanized Honeybees are a hybrid of African and European honeybees. The bees share many physical characteristics with European bees, they also exhibit more defensive behavior, particularly while protecting their colony. According to ADAI, these bees do not pose a threat unless provoked. 

The public is asked to report any unusual aggressive bee behavior to ADAI immediately and beekeepers should remain valiant and report any changes in colony behavior or suspected AHB presence. ADAi’s State Apiary Protection Unit can be reached at (334) 240-7228 or (334) 240-7172. For more information, visit https://agi.alabama.gov/plantprotection/apiary-protection-unit/.