BILLIONS of honey bees have hit the road on an annual pilgrimage to Sunraysia's almond orchards this week.

Australia's almond industry, which relies wholly on honey bees for pollination, will require around 277,000 hives this season, according to the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council (AHBIC).

Peter McDonald is one commercial beekeeper delivering his bees to the region.

He said consumers may...