International Journal of Entomology Research

Authors
Abdullahi Magaji Dauda, Abbati Nasiru, Mohammed Suleiman

Abstract
A study was conducted between March and September, 2017 in order to find the impact of agricultural practices on population status of honey bees in Katsina State. Survey questionnaire were used to collect data from traditional beekeepers, honey sellers, farmers and settlers. The survey was conducted in three selected local government areas (LGAs), namely Rimi, Batsari and Mashi, due to their popularity in beekeeping activities. A descriptive statistical methods and chi-square (χ²) were used to present and analyze the data obtained. Beekeepers in the study area were 100% males, 56.44% of them were at the age range of 61-80 years and 54.46% attained primary education and having a reasonable number of hives. Populations of honey bees were moderately decreased due to improper use of pesticides/herbicides (44.50%), deforestation (28.70%), water contamination (15.90%) and bush burning (10.90%). Therefore, application of pesticides and herbicides during the flowering period should be avoided. Chemical pesticides should also be substituted with biopesticides so as to minimize the toxicity of chemicals to pollinators.