Honey production in France has declined because bees were less active due to heatwaves

Honey production in France has declined because bees were less active due to heatwaves. The peak production period usually runs from April to July, but from early June bee activity was limited by the heat.

In extreme heat, bees fly less to avoid overheating, resulting in less pollen brought into the hives. Heatwaves also caused flowers and vegetation to dry out. According to Henri Clément, beekeeper and spokesperson for the French National Beekeepers' Association (UNAF), harvests are becoming increasingly unpredictable and depend on the weather.