Beekeeping in Ireland

''Apis mellifera'' with a ''Varroa destructor'' mite on its thorax Beekeeping is first recorded in Ireland in the seventh century. It has seen a surge in popularity in modern times, with the membership of beekeeping associations exceeding 4,500. The median average number of hives per beekeeper is three hives, while the average honey output per hive is 11.4 kg (25 lb). The growth in the practice has occurred despite increased pressures on bees and beekeepers due to parasites, diseases and habitat loss. Provided by Wikipedia

Results