How Does Varroa Mite Kill a Bee Hive? Here is a short list of questions to ask that might answer this question.

Did Varroa kill my hive?

• Was their honey? Yes…
• Was there a queen issues – no eggs or brood, lots of drones, cups and queen cells. No…
• When was the last time you saw bees flying?
  • Fall, the bees feel sick so they leave the hives so a strong hive suddenly looks small.
  • Can look like absconding but bees are actually going to other hives, and taking the viruses or mites with them.
• Small dead cluster on the face of the frame, lots of dead bees on the bottom board
• Are there varroa mites on the bees in the cluster?
• The dead bees have deformities, are black, and show other signs of virus infection.

Intro to Integrated Pest Mnagement

• Sun exposure
• Spacing
• Dry area
• Study, learn, keep up to date with new information
• Monitoring pest populations
• Using entry thresholds – using numbers to control their treatment
• Using a combination of treatments
• Evaluating the effectiveness of treatments.
• Biological, habitat modification, chemical.
• Be active, year around
• Be prepared and knowledgeable. Establish a plan before the season starts.
• Proactive not reactive mite management