Erlete Elkartea and the ADR Urkiola have established a sanctuary in the Urkiola Natural Park,…

Erlete Elkartea and the ADR Urkiola have established a sanctuary in the Urkiola Natural Park, located over 700 meters above sea level, to protect up to 100 beehives in the region. This initiative aims to preserve the genetic heritage of the native black bee (Apis mellifera iberiensis) amidst threats from the invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) and climate change.

The local beekeeping community in Durangaldea faces significant challenges, including high temperatures and drought, which diminish nectar production and weaken bee colonies. Meanwhile, warmer weather promotes the reproductive cycle of the invasive hornet, forcing beekeepers to relocate their hives to distant areas like Gorbeia, Llanada Alavesa, or Burgos.