Varroa Mites

The parasite feeds from the bees blood after attaching itself firmly to the body. A large shield-like hard casing protects the Varroa's vulnerable underside. Once attached, the parasite is virtually untouchable within the bee hive environment.

1.Russian and European experiences reveal an infestation is usually fatal to colonies of European bees (Apis mellifera) within three to seven years.

2.Low levels of infestation are extremely difficult to detect.

3.It is a 7-10 year process to get chemicals registered, a process often costing millions of dollars.

4.Many of the 140 or so chemicals used worldwide for Varroa mite control are toxic to bees and beekeepers and their use risks contamination of honey and wax.

5.The Varroa mite develops resistance to chemicals in a short time. This is especially true when the chemicals are not used properly and/or dosage rates have not been adequately investigated.

Life Cycle of Varroa

Fact Sheets

Treatments