Meet the Only Bee Veterinarian in the U.S.: A Unique Perspective on Pollinator Health

I grew up as an only child in the US, where kids roamed freely. My parents would tell me to go outside and come back for meals. I loved exploring the woods and wetlands, surrounded by nature’s stories, even if I didn’t fully understand them.

When I was seven, a tragic event changed my perspective. A little kitten in our house was accidentally crushed. The vet examined her and declared she wouldn’t survive. I was amazed and confused by his certainty, and in that moment, I realized I wanted to understand animals better. This moment sparked my dream of becoming a veterinarian. Today, I’m an environmental health scientist with over 25 years of experience.

In 2017, the US government updated regulations about antibiotics for animals due to rising concerns over antibiotic resistance. Beekeepers could no longer buy these medications freely; they needed a veterinarian’s prescription. This prompted me to start my own veterinary practice focusing on bees.

Unique as a “bee vet” in the US, I have always nurtured a passion for both fruit growing and supporting bees. I work diligently, often outside my regular hours, because I truly enjoy collaborating with these incredible pollinators. It feels more like a calling than a job.

I consult with beekeepers who notice unusual signs in their hives. For example, they might tell me, “I see brown larvae, and something’s off.” I suit up, first examining the healthy hives before moving on to the problematic ones. I approach the bees calmly, helping them feel at ease. One serious disease I often encounter is European foulbrood. Its scent is distinctive—almost sweet and musky—signalizing a larger issue.

After diagnosing a problem, I prescribe treatments for the beekeepers. They mix antibiotics with powdered sugar for the bees to consume. The challenges facing bees have intensified, especially with erratic weather affecting their food sources. For instance, European foulbrood can decimate a hive’s young, leaving only the queen, leading to a failing colony over time.

The instability of our climate has made bee health precarious. Recently, studies have shown that the jet stream’s unpredictability has grown, impacting seasonal cycles. Last February was unusually warm, pushing wild bees out of hibernation too soon when flowers weren’t ready. This mismatch is increasingly stressful for bee populations.

Initially, I learned about beekeeping through books, but soon realized I needed hands-on experience. I spent time with beekeepers and joined my local bee club, gradually building my knowledge-base.

While honeybees benefit from our protection and care, it’s the wild bees that truly concern me. They rely entirely on their environment, which is increasingly unstable due to changing climate patterns. The alarming trends in weather not only affect bees but also threaten various animal populations.

Every bee is vital. Early in the year, when wild queen bees are out, it’s crucial to help any that appear distressed. Saving one queen can mean saving an entire colony.

In light of this, it’s worth noting that our pollinators are under significant stress, and actions taken to preserve them today will determine their future health. Be sure to stay informed about this pressing issue and appreciate the role these creatures play in our ecosystem.



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