Evaluation of Absconding Rate, Foraging and Defensive Behaviour in <i>Apis mellifera monticola</i>

Abstract

Honey bee colonies display a wide range of behavioural variations based on their genetic origin and environmental factors. It is crucial to evaluate the absconding, foraging, and defensive behaviour of different honey bee races to lay the groundwork for future selection and improvement in Ethiopia. For this study, we kept 90 colonies of Apis mellifera monticolla, with 30 colonies/ agroecology, in improved box hives. These colonies were similar in terms of the resources contained in the hive. During the active seasons of September to December 2021 and April to June 2022, an assessment of the foraging activity, defensive behaviour, and absconding rate was done. The study revealed that colonies of A.m.monticola exhibited an average response time of 53.29 sec to disturbances, indicating their defensive behaviour. Additionally, these colonies demonstrated a willingness to pursue intruders for distances of up to 182.42 m. These colonies were excellent foragers, beginning their activities at 8:13 a.m. and returning to the hive by 10:04 p.m. Moreover, A.m. monticolla showed an absconding rate ranging from 1.90 to 4.28% when faced with disruptions. To ensure optimal colony health and productivity, it is advisable to conduct further research on the selection of high-performing colonies.