Coorg Honey Attracts Migratory Beekeepers from Keralam
Kochi/Madikeri: Coorg’s coffee plantations and forest flora are attracting migratory beekeepers from Keralam, who transport their bee colonies to Kodagu in Karnataka during the February-March coffee flowering season to produce distinctive honey with a unique flavour.
Seasonal beekeeping, which involves shifting bee colonies to areas with abundant flowering plants, is becoming increasingly important as unpredictable rainfall and changing weather conditions affect honey production. Beekeepers from southern and central Kerala are travelling to neighbouring states in search of reliable nectar sources while also supporting agricultural pollination, according to a report in TNIE.
Coorg honey enjoys a distinct reputation in the market, with the nectar from coffee blossoms and certain forest trees contributing to its characteristic taste. According to Cherian Joseph, a beekeeper from Kasaragod, some ancient forest trees in Coorg produce nectar-rich flowers that impart a special flavour to the honey.
Beekeepers from Keralam have traditionally transported their colonies to Karnataka, targeting coffee estates and, in earlier years, sunflower and cotton fields. However, the disappearance of some flowering crop areas has increasingly directed their attention towards coffee plantations.
“Transporting the colonies is challenging, and the destination must be reached overnight to prevent difficulties during transit,” Joseph said. He added that restrictions intended to minimise human-wildlife conflict have made it difficult to place beehives in forest areas, limiting access to certain nectar sources.
In Keralam, Kasaragod, Kannur and Idukki are recognised for their honey-producing potential and attract migratory beekeepers. Meanwhile, nearly 90% of the state’s honey production comes from colonies kept in rubber plantations. Changing climatic conditions are encouraging producers to diversify their sources of nectar.
S.A. John, a founding member of the Federation of Indigenous Apiculturists (FIA), said seasonal migration by beekeepers had existed for years, but the practice was gaining wider acceptance despite logistical and other risks. Beekeepers from northern and central India also travel to southern states in search of suitable flowering seasons.
Although honey is increasingly favoured as a natural sweetener, Kerala’s growing beekeeping community has not recorded a corresponding rise in production. Beekeeping organisations are seeking greater assistance from the Union and state governments to address challenges and strengthen the sector.
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