Custodians of the National Insect: A Two-Tier Commitment by Beekeepers

Following the historic declaration of the Maltese Honey Bee (Apis mellifera ruttneri) as Malta’s National Insect on 24 September 2024, the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee is strengthening its conservation efforts through the initiative: Custodians of the National Insect. Central to this initiative is the formal recognition of beekeepers as Guardians of the National Insect, a title coined by the Foundation, and the introduction of a clear two-tier framework that allows beekeepers to participate according to their level of commitment.

The legal recognition of the Maltese Honey Bee marked a significant milestone in national conservation, following years of scientific research and advocacy, including collaboration with the University of Malta and formal submissions to the Environment and Resources Authority. With this higher legal status now secured, the Foundation’s focus has shifted from recognition to structured, long-term protection of Malta’s endemic honey bee.

The Custodians of the National Insect initiative brings together beekeepers, sponsors, and landowners to establish apiaries dedicated exclusively to the Maltese Honey Bee. These apiaries will form conservation clusters across the Maltese islands, increasing the likelihood of local mating and reducing genetic dilution caused by imported honey bees. At the heart of this initiative lies a two-tier system designed specifically for beekeepers.

Tier 1: Declared Guardian

Tier 1 is open to any beekeeper who wishes to formally align with the conservation objectives of the Custodians of the National Insect initiative. Beekeepers joining this tier are required to voluntarily sign a declaration confirming that:

• To the best of their knowledge, their colonies are of Maltese origin
• They do not intend to import foreign honey bees
• They agree to provide bee samples for DNA analysis upon request
• They wish to replace their foreign queens with ones certified as being of Maltese origin

Participation at this level supports the creation of a national registry of beekeepers committed to safeguarding the Maltese Honey Bee and contributes directly to the establishment of conservation zones. When funds are available to genetically test the colonies of registered beekeepers under Tier 1, their details will be displayed on a dedicated page of our website. Each beekeeper will also be provided with a QR code that can be printed on honey labels. Customers can scan the code to access verified information on our website, confirming that the honey they purchased is not only Maltese but also produced by the Maltese Honey Bee, our National Insect. Beekeepers wishing to participate under Tier 1: Declared Guardian are invited to complete the application form below.

Tier 2: Supported Guardian

Tier 2 is designed for beekeepers seeking a deeper and more active role within the initiative. In addition to fulfilling and benefiting from all Tier 1 requirements and benefits, Supported Guardians will receive targeted assistance from the Foundation. This support, derived from sponsorship funding, may include financial contributions towards hives, nuclei, and other essential resources needed to establish and strengthen colonies of the Maltese Honey Bee.

This tier focuses on expanding genetically verified populations, promoting best practice in conservation-focused beekeeping, and building strong, resilient apiaries dedicated to Malta’s National Insect.

The two-tier structure ensures inclusivity while maintaining scientific integrity, allowing beekeepers to contribute meaningfully at different levels while collectively strengthening national conservation efforts. As participation grows, the Foundation envisages progressing towards a structured breeding programme aimed at reinforcing population numbers and preserving the long-term genetic integrity of the Maltese Honey Bee.

Through the Custodians of the National Insect initiative, beekeepers are empowered as Guardians, national pride in Malta’s unique honey bee is reinforced, and the foundations are laid for effective, lasting conservation action.

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.