Pest & Disease Management of Honey Bees

​​​​​Many pests, pathogens and parasites are spread among managed colonies and from managed colonies to wild bees.  It is crucial to catch problems early, assess treatment effectiveness, and avoid unnecessary treatment. The following practices are recommended to help prevent the spread of bee pests, pathogens and parasites:

  • Monitor for varroa mites, treat when mite counts exceed 3 mites per 100 bees sampled

  • Diagnose hive ailments and choose carefully among treatment op​tions

  • Always rotate control treatment options

  • Rotate out a portion of old brood comb every year to reduce the buildup of pathogens and other substances​

Resources​

Find a Veterinarian for your bees

USDA Bee Lab Services

Pest and Disease Control Treatment Options.pdf

Exotic Pests and Diseases of Honey Bees ppt

Best Management Practices for Beekeeping to Maximize Pollinator Health

Honey Bee Health Coalition - Tools for Varroa Management

Honey Bee Health Coalition - Varroa Management Decision Tool

Honey Bee Health Coalition - Best Management Practices for Bee Health

Record sheet for Management and Treatment of Bees

 

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