Introduction
The Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee is pleased to launch a community consultation on its proposed Action Plan for the Conservation of the National Insect. This initiative marks a crucial step in protecting one of Malta’s unique and invaluable natural treasures: Apis mellifera ruttneri, the endemic honey bee subspecies found only in the Maltese Islands. This action plan is an independent project driven solely by the Foundation, with no external involvement.
Why the Maltese Honey Bee Matters
The honey bee (Apis mellifera) is indigenous to Malta; however, the Maltese Honey Bee (Apis mellifera ruttneri) is a distinct subspecies that has evolved in isolation over thousands of years, making it unique to the Maltese archipelago. Perfectly adapted to Malta’s climate and ecosystems, it plays a vital role in local pollination, supports agriculture, and contributes significantly to honey production, being deeply intertwined with Malta’s heritage.
Nevertheless, this native bee faces a serious threat from hybridisation caused by the importation of foreign honey bee breeds. These imported bees mate with the Maltese subspecies, resulting in genetic mixing that is eroding its unique characteristics. This gradual loss of genetic identity threatens the subspecies’ survival and resilience in local habitats.
Protecting the Maltese Honey Bee is especially vital in the context of climate change. The subspecies’ local adaptation makes it better equipped to cope with environmental stresses such as temperature fluctuations and drought. The loss of this genetic resource would diminish biodiversity and weaken Malta’s ecological resilience.
About the Foundation
The Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee is solely dedicated to protecting and promoting Apis mellifera ruttneri. Its primary mission is to formulate and implement a comprehensive action plan that coordinates conservation efforts across Malta.
While the Foundation is still in its infancy, it is now time to formalise all tasks achieved so far, and future initiatives, into an action plan that will serve as a guiding framework.
Mission
The mission of this Action Plan is to safeguard the Maltese Honey Bee by establishing a coordinated, evidence-based framework that protects its genetic integrity, promotes sustainable beekeeping, and raises national awareness of its importance.
Objectives of the Action Plan based on the Foundation’s Principles
- To raise awareness about the significance of the Maltese Honey Bee for Malta’s natural environment, the apiculture sector, and agriculture.
- To highlight the Maltese Honey Bee as a vital part of Malta’s natural heritage, deserving comprehensive conservation efforts.
- To promote knowledge, research, and breeding related to the endemic Maltese Honey Bee.
- To unite and coordinate individuals, organisations, and non-governmental entities interested in the conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee.
- To outline a comprehensive plan ensuring the holistic protection of the Maltese Honey Bee.
How to Participate
Kindly complete the questions below and submit through the provided form, together with your personal details. The deadline for submissions is 30th September 2025.
Community Consultation Questions
The Foundation invites the community to share views and contribute to shaping this vital initiative. We welcome concrete feedback on how the objectives of the Foundation’s Plan of Action can be achieved, particularly addressing the following questions:
Documents
- In-Naħla Maltija hi Protetta?
- Benefiċċji tan-Naħla Maltija fl-Apikultura
- Unique Insect: The Maltese Honey Bee
- Review of the Maltese and European Laws related to the Genetic Protection of the Endemic Maltese Honey Bee (Apis mellifera ruttneri)
To stay up to date with the Foundation’s work, we warmly invite you to join our WhatsApp community. The smooth functioning of our organisation relies on financial resources, and your support is essential. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference in advancing our mission. You can help by joining the Foundation’s cause, become a supporter for just €10 a year or make a donation here: Support the Foundation.
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