The Zagros Mountains, the backbone of western Iran, are not just a collection of majestic peaks and valleys; they are a living, dynamic ecosystem and one of the most vital beekeeping regions in the country. This land, stretching from the northwest to the southeast, is home to thousands of valuable plant species and a paradise for honeybees. Zagros honey has a unique identity that originates from its wild, diverse, and often medicinal flora, distinguishing it from honey produced in purely agricultural areas. In Ilam province, a major honey production hub in the west, over 550 nectar-producing plant species have been identified, and this diversity provides an unparalleled foundation for producing high-quality honey. Every drop of Zagros honey is an extract of pristine nature, the scent of mountain herbs, and the tireless efforts of beekeepers and their bees.

The Rhythm of Migration: The Pulse of Beekeeping in the Zagros

Beekeeping in the Zagros is defined by a key concept: "migration." This nomadic practice is a smart and necessary adaptation to the diverse and scattered flowering calendar of this vast mountain range. Professional beekeepers, in sync with nature, guide their colonies on a vertical and horizontal journey; a journey that begins in the warm, low-lying plains in early spring and, by following the "nectar flow," reaches the high, cool pastures at the peak of summer. This seasonal movement, a deep-rooted culture among the region's beekeepers, allows them to exploit successive blooms at different altitudes and maximize honey production. This harmonious rhythm with nature is the essence of successful beekeeping in the Zagros.