Kurdistan Region beekeepers, environmentalists condemn killing of bee-eaters near hives

ERBIL — Videos circulating in recent days show individuals in the Kurdistan Region killing flocks of bee-eaters near beehives in an effort to protect their bees — an action strongly criticized by the Kurdistan Beekeepers Organization and environmental groups.

Ahmad Pishdari, president of the Kurdistan Beekeepers Organization, told 964media he does not support the killing of the birds. “I do not condone what these individuals have done, but I also believe there are other solutions that can be taken to protect the beehives,” he said.

Pishdari suggested alternatives such as installing scarecrows or producing sounds near the hives to drive the birds away without harm. “Those who are doing this are ignorant,” he said, while acknowledging that bee-eaters can pose a threat to beehives in the region.

Bahez Farouq of the Bamo Tigers Organization, an animal protection group, also opposed the killing, urging beekeepers to avoid placing hives under trees or wires during the bee-eaters’ migration season. He recommended using movement-based deterrents, scarecrows, and harmless sound and light methods to keep the birds at bay.

“During this time of year, beehives should not become a habitat for bee-eaters,” Farouq said.

Last year, the Raparin Forest and Environment Police issued a warning against harming bee-eaters. Shorsh Kaka Fattahullah, head of the Raparin Forest and Environment Police, told 964media that killing the birds is not permitted under any circumstances.

“The best solution for protecting beehives is to avoid all situations that bring bee-eaters into conflict with the hives,” he said.

According to Article 42 of the Kurdistan Region’s Environmental Protection and Improvement Law No. 8 of 2008, capturing or killing wild birds is punishable by fines and possible imprisonment.