70,000 bees dead! IMKER finds consolation from small helpers
70,000 bees dead! IMKER finds consolation from small helpers
In April, Maike Lenz, a beekeeper from Gettorf, made a shocking find: there were 70,000 dead bees on a private property, which removed her 15 out of 20 beehives. Laboratory analyzes revealed the insecticide phenothrin and tetramethrin, which are not allowed in Germany and the EU as active ingredients in pesticides. Lenz suspects that someone deliberately sprayed insect spray into the beehives, which led to the destruction of their bee colonies. To find the perpetrators, she filed a complaint with the police and suspended a reward of 500 euros, which was later increased by a restaurateur from Eckernförde to 1000 euros. A beekeeper colleague contributed an additional 200 euros, so that a total of 1200 euros are available for references to the perpetrators.WOW, what a disgrace for the local beekeeper scene! After reporting, Lenz received around 180 news full of comfort and courage. A personal gift from a little boy who gave her a “bee Maja” quartet to add her to her was particularly touching. Despite the terrible circumstances, Lenz remains optimistic. Twelve people took over bees sponsorships for 120 euros each to support them in the reconstruction of their bee colonies. Lenz plans to take offspring from a beekeeper colleague and build new peoples with the aim of harvesting honey again next year, even if it could become less than usual.
The health risks of insecticides
In the discussion about insect deaths and their causes, the effects of insecticides on the environment and health are not to be neglected. In particular, the insecticide D-Phenothrin, which was demonstrated in this case, has a low toxicity when taking, inhaling or in contact with the skin. According to information from Oregon State University, D-Phenothrin can lead to skin sensations such as tingling or itching, and when contacting the eyes, it is described as mild. But not only people are affected-but also pets, especially cats, can show severe reactions if they come into contact with D-phenothrin.
protection of insects urgently necessary
In the middle of these frightening incidents, a comprehensive system change in agriculture is necessary to protect insect populations. The BUND for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany calls for a drastic reduction in the amount of pesticide and a ban on particularly dangerous substances such as glyphosate and neonicinoids. Concrete, measurable goals and extensive financial measures are necessary to stop this threatening trend. A conversion of agricultural policy at European level is also essential so that pollinators get a real opportunity.The police are investigating property damage and a possible violation of the Federal Nature Conservation Act, which can be punished with a fine of up to 50,000 euros. In the meantime, the focus is on health and environmental protection as well as the preservation of the valuable insects that are indispensable for our ecosystems. It remains to be hoped that the perpetrators can be found quickly and that such hideous acts can be prevented in the future.
More about this incident and the health risks of pesticides can be found in the reports of KN-Online , oregon state university and BUND .
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| Ort | Gettorf, Deutschland |
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