The Bee Supply Monthly

Doing regular hive inspections is crucial for having healthy, thriving colonies. Listen as Dr. Jamie Ellis tells us what is most important to look for during these hive inspections. 

Every time you open a hive, it can look a little different—and that’s part of the challenge. 🐝 Learning what you’re seeing is key to making good decisions during inspections. 

Our experts explain when and how to test for Varroa mites. Video tutorials included.

The Varroa mite is considered the number one cause of death in honey bee colonies worldwide. When Varroa mites were discovered in the United States in 1987, beekeepers didn’t have the effective treatments we now possess. Fast forward to today, and we have developed efficient tools to manage Varroa mites—small, tick-like creatures that are highly destructive. Beekeepers now have treatment options that cater to various preferences, including mechanical, organic, and chemical methods.

Beekeepers, often think of pests as Varroa mites, small hive beetles, and wax moths, but pests can also include wildlife and livestock. While these are not daily threats to honey bees, they can be significant in certain areas, and knowing how to manage them is key to successful beekeeping.