How to Sample for Varroa Mites: Two Methods

This video shows you how to use two sampling methods step-by-step: the powdered sugar shake method and the alcohol (or soap) wash method. Be sure to sample again after completing each treatment to make sure the treatment was effective.

This is the second in a series of short videos from the Honey Bee Health Coalition on how to manage varroa mites successfully.

Why should you effectively manage varroa mites in your honey bee colonies? Every honey bee colony in North America either has varroa mites or will in just a few months. When colonies are not treated, or are treated ineffectively, they weaken and may be more susceptible to other negative factors, such as pesticide damage, virus infections, and other maladies. Failure to control mites endangers not only your colonies but also colonies in other apiaries and feral honey bees in your area. Widespread colony deaths can cause major economic damage for beekeepers and harm essential agricultural pollination services.

Whether you have a few colonies or you manage large apiaries, these videos show practical steps you can use to better control varroa mites.

LINKS:
The Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
More varroa resources: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/v...