Healthy bees are the foundation of a thriving hive, but they face numerous challenges from diseases, pests, and environmental stresses. As a beekeeper, recognising the signs of trouble early and taking proactive steps to prevent and address these issues is essential for maintaining hive health. This guide explores the most common bee diseases and pests, along with practical solutions to keep your bees buzzing happily.
The Importance of Hive Health
A healthy hive is productive, resilient, and capable of withstanding environmental pressures. However, when diseases and pests infiltrate, they can weaken or even wipe out an entire colony. Regular hive inspections, combined with good management practices, are key to early detection and prevention.
Common Bee Diseases
1. Varroa Mite Infestations
Varroa mites are one of the most serious threats to honeybees worldwide. These tiny external parasites attach themselves to bees and larvae, feeding on them and weakening their immune systems.
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Symptoms: Deformed wings, weakened bees, reduced brood, and a general decline in colony strength.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Conduct regular inspections to monitor mite levels.
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Use integrated pest management (IPM) methods, such as drone brood removal or screened bottom boards.
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Apply chemical treatments like oxalic or formic acid during low honey flow periods.
2. American Foulbrood (AFB)
AFB is a bacterial disease that affects bee larvae, causing them to die in their cells. It is highly contagious and can spread rapidly between colonies.
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Symptoms: Sunken, discoloured brood caps, a foul odour, and a "ropey" texture when brood cells are probed.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Maintain good hygiene by sterilising equipment and tools.
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Immediately isolate and destroy infected hives.
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Use antibiotics, such as oxytetracycline, under veterinary guidance in regions where it is allowed.
3. Nosema Disease
Nosema is caused by a microsporidian parasite that infects a bee’s gut, affecting their digestion and energy levels. It is most common during colder months when bees are confined to the hive.
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Symptoms: Dysentery, lethargy, and poor spring build-up.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Ensure good hive ventilation to reduce moisture levels.
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Replace old comb regularly to minimise spore build-up.
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Administer treatments like fumagillin where permitted.
4. Chalkbrood
Chalkbrood is a fungal disease that affects larvae, turning them into hard, chalky mummies. It is often a secondary issue caused by stress or poor hive conditions.
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Symptoms: White or grey mummified larvae visible at the hive entrance or inside cells.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Improve ventilation and reduce hive dampness.
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Requeen the hive with a stronger, more resistant strain.
Common Bee Pests
1. Small Hive Beetles
Small hive beetles invade hives, laying eggs that hatch into larvae, which consume honey and pollen while contaminating the comb.
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Symptoms: Fermented honey, slimy combs, and visible beetles or larvae.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Maintain strong colonies with limited space for invaders.
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Use traps or beetle blasters inside the hive.
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Avoid placing hives in shaded, damp areas.
2. Wax Moths
Wax moths target weakened hives, laying eggs that hatch into larvae, which feed on wax, pollen, and brood.
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Symptoms: Tunnels in comb, webbing, and destruction of frames.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Keep colonies strong and well-maintained.
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Store unused comb in cool, well-ventilated areas or freeze it to kill eggs and larvae.
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Use moth traps or repellents in storage areas.
3. Ants
Ants are opportunistic pests that invade hives to steal honey or feed on weak colonies.
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Symptoms: Ant trails leading to the hive, disturbed combs, or a noticeable decline in hive activity.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Place hives on stands with ant-proof barriers, such as oil-filled moats.
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Keep the area around the hive clear of debris.
4. Hornets and Wasps
Hornets and wasps prey on honeybees and can rob hives of honey, especially in late summer.
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Symptoms: Dead bees near the hive entrance, increased robbing activity.
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Prevention and Treatment:
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Reduce hive entrances to make them easier for bees to defend.
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Set traps for wasps and hornets away from the hive.
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Avoid leaving honey or sugar water exposed, which can attract predators.
Best Practices for Hive Health
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Regular Inspections: Conduct hive checks every 7–10 days during active seasons to monitor for signs of disease or pests.
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Maintain Strong Colonies: Healthy, populous hives are better equipped to fend off invaders and recover from disease.
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Good Hygiene: Clean tools, replace old combs, and keep the hive area tidy to reduce the risk of contamination.
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Requeen Regularly: Introducing a new, vigorous queen can improve colony resilience and productivity.
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Monitor the Environment: Keep hives in locations with ample forage, good ventilation, and low exposure to pesticides.
Conclusion
Keeping bees healthy requires vigilance, knowledge, and proactive care. By understanding common diseases and pests and implementing prevention strategies, you can ensure the well-being of your colonies. Healthy hives not only produce more honey but also contribute to stronger pollinator populations and thriving ecosystems.
Beekeeping is a partnership between humans and bees—when we care for them thoughtfully, they reward us with their hard work and the gifts of the hive. Let’s give them the best chance to thrive.
