Feed Resources of Honeybees in Kewet District of Amhara, Ethiopia

Abstract

A study was conducted in Kewet district of North Shewa zone Amhara Regional State to assess the feed resources of honeybees. Cross-sectional types of studies were used to collect data. Using a purposive sampling technique, 60 beekeepers were included in the survey. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. Plants that are generally considered to be toxic to bees and humans or suspected in the study areas by the respondents are: Gumero, Yeferenj Digit (Cassia siamea), Bisan (Croton macrostachyus), Iret (Aloe brahana), Foch (Zizyphusmucronata), Endod (Phytolaccadodecandra) and Susbania species. Survey conducted in the district showed that the cultivated and natural honey flora potential of the area makes it very favorable for beekeeping. The study district besides cereals, pulses and shrubs/trees/herbs it has known for its horticulture production. Based on the source status and abundance, 60 plant species were identified by the respondents as important bee flora in the study area. The respondents indicated that even though there are different types of bee plants in honey flora seasons, there is a shortage of bee food during the dry seasons. They also indicated that bee forages become declining as compared with the past period due to forest degradation, population growth and expansion of cultivated lands in the area.

Key words: feed resources, beekeepers, colony, poisonous, Kewet