IPOH: Burning a bee nest needlessly destroys thousands of vital pollinators, says the conservation group MY Bee Savior.
Its representative Ken Lee said bees played a crucial role in pollinating 75% to 80% of flowering plants.
“Bees do not attack unless provoked. They sting only to defend their colony when they feel threatened.
“Bees have no interest in humans. They are interested in flowers, pollen and nectar,” he said in an interview.
Lee said Malaysia’s rapid urban development, habitat fragmentation and use of agricultural chemicals had pushed wild bee colonies into residential areas, roof eaves and concrete structures.
He said more than 70% of bee colonies found on Malaysian properties were exterminated because bees were generally perceived as a threat.
Lee warned that continued loss of bee populations could affect food security, accelerate ecosystem degradation and have economic consequences.
He said a lack of public understanding often caused panic when people encountered bee nests, leading them to contact the Fire and Rescue Department or Civil Defence Force to exterminate the colonies.
He advised the public to remain calm when they discover a bee nest and avoid throwing rocks, spraying water or poking the nest with a pole.
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“Keep a safe distance and observe whether it is a temporary swarm resting on a branch, which may remain there for one to seven days depending on the species.
“For assistance, contact rescuers such as MY Bee Savior or trained local bee relocators,” he said.
Bee relocation has a success rate of about 70% to 80% when the queen is captured uninjured and sufficient brood frames are transferred to sustain the colony during the transition, he said.
Rescued colonies are then brought to dedicated community bee gardens, including those at university campuses, where they can continue foraging and pollinating safely.
Lee also urged the public to educate neighbours and estate management against torching nests, and to support or volunteer with local non-profit bee rescue groups.
“Bees are beneficial insects, unlike how the public often misjudges them as a threat simply because they sting.
“Bees are friends, not foes,” he said.
