
PORTSMOUTH — While bees may not have enjoyed the stormy weather brought by this week’s nor’easter, local beekeepers say there are plenty of ways residents can help pollinators thrive, even without keeping a hive in their backyard.
At Paradise Creek Nature Park in Portsmouth, local beekeeper Lacy Shirey said weather changes can have an immediate impact on honeybee behavior.
“We’re experiencing a nor’easter here this week, and when I went in the hive I could tell they were agitated,” Shirey said.
Shirey and fellow beekeeper Bill Gregory have seen much more challenging situations, including capturing bee swarms. Despite the work involved, Gregory said beekeeping is a rewarding hobby.
“Beekeeping is a wonderful hobby. I would encourage anyone to explore it,” Gregory said.
While maintaining a hive isn’t practical for everyone, local experts say supporting pollinators can be as simple as creating a welcoming habitat in your yard.
Many people are surprised to learn that honeybees are not native to North America.


