Visually Checking for Varroa Mites - Video Tutorial

Visually Checking for Varroa Mites

Varroa mites are a significant pest in beekeeping, affecting honey bee colonies worldwide. Blake from Texas Bee Supply discusses the importance of recognizing the signs of Varroa mites in beehives. While visual cues alone should not be solely relied upon to diagnose or gauge the severity of infestation, they can prompt beekeepers to conduct further tests to assess the situation accurately.

Key Visual Signs of Varroa Mites in Beehives

Deformed Wings

Often referred to as K-wings, bees with crumpled or misshapen wings on their backs likely suffered Varroa damage during development. This is a visible indicator that there might be a significant mite problem.

Presence of Varroa Mites

Spotting mites on bees, although difficult without magnification, is a direct sign of infestation. These tiny pests can sometimes be visible on the bee’s back.

Bald Brood

Uncapped or partially uncapped pupae suggest hygienic behavior by bees trying to remove mites from brood cells. If you notice this, especially in large numbers, it’s a concerning sign.

Increased Hygienic Behavior

Bees frequently uncapping pupae to remove mites may be noticed. A large number of uncapped cells indicates significant hygienic activity and potential Varroa infestation.

Drone Brood Inspection

Drones are more susceptible to Varroa mites. Inspecting drone brood, particularly between hive boxes, can reveal hidden mites. Check for mites on the drone brood whenever you separate hive boxes.

Observation of Mite Movement

Seeing mites moving on the brood or adult bees is an alarming indication of a high mite load. Watch closely during inspections.

Behavioral Changes

Any abnormal behavior in bees, such as lethargy or disorientation, might be linked to Varroa infestation. Keep an eye out for unexplained changes in behavior.

Conclusion

While these visual signs can be helpful indicators of a potential Varroa mite problem in a beehive, they should not replace regular and systematic mite testing. This can be done with a Varroa EasyCheck kit. To use the kit, follow along with this comprehensive guide: How to Test for Varroa Mites

Blake emphasizes the importance of performing mite tests, especially after honey harvests in the summer, to ensure the health and sustainability of bee colonies. Understanding and monitoring these signs can help beekeepers initiate timely interventions to manage and treat Varroa mites effectively.