In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff and Becky talk with Rowdy Freeman, a deputy sheriff from California who has become a leading figure in the fight against beehive theft. What began as a criminal investigation over a decade ago drew Rowdy into the world of bees, and today he’s not only a law enforcement expert but also a commercial beekeeper managing over 1,200 colonies.
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff and Becky talk with Rowdy Freeman, a deputy sheriff from California who has become a leading figure in the fight against beehive theft. What began as a criminal investigation over a decade ago drew Rowdy into the world of bees, and today he’s not only a law enforcement expert but also a commercial beekeeper managing over 1,200 colonies.Rowdy shares how hive theft has grown into a serious agricultural crime, especially during almond pollination season in California. He explains the tactics thieves use, from stealing entire hives to removing bees from within colonies, and how difficult it can be to trace stolen bees once they’ve changed hands. Drawing on his experience in both law enforcement and beekeeping, Rowdy offers practical advice for protecting colonies, including using GPS trackers, wireless cameras, and clearly marked equipment.
He also discusses how building strong relationships with landowners and reporting even small thefts can help authorities track patterns and intervene. With theft numbers rising and colony losses reaching record highs, Rowdy’s perspective is timely and vital.
This episode shines a light on an often-overlooked threat facing beekeepers and reminds listeners of the importance of vigilance and community support in protecting our bees.
Websites from the episode and others we recommend:
- California State Beekeeper's Assn. HIve Theft Site: https://www.californiastatebeekeepers.com/issue-hive-theft/
- Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
- The National Honey Board: https://honey.com
- Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com
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