City of Greater Geraldton treats feral bees taking over Chapman River Regional Park

Feral bees are becoming an issue at Chapman River Regional Park as they attack people using the trail and threaten the health and safety of native animals.

The City of Greater Geraldton is taking steps by treating feral beehives in an effort to reduce the unwanted populations.

Acting CEO Chris Lee said the European honey bee was an exotic species introduced to Australia almost 200 years ago and had become very problematic in the park.

“Despite what some people believe, these aggressive, unmanaged bees are not welcome in the park and are actually harming our natural areas,” Mr Lee said.

If the bees are left unmanaged, the species strip native fauna and flora for resources, taking over tree hollows where native wildlife nest. This includes the endangered Carnaby’s black-cockatoo.

The bees also disrupt natural pollen processes, preferring unwanted weeds causing the faster spread of these plants.

Curtin University native bee researcher Dr Kit Prendergast, who delivered native bee workshops in the City last year, noted high densities of feral bees in the CRRP while surveying for native bees.

Treated trails will be closed to the public to ensure visitors are kept safe from aggravated bees.

The City requests the community avoid closed areas in the park for their own safety.