Parasitic Varroa Mites | COVID 19 for Bees
It's official: varroa mites have arrived in Australia!
These tiny parasites are a lot like COVID-19 in that they spread easily and are tough to spot. If left unchecked, an outbreak of varroa could have major consequences for our bees.
It's estimated that up to 95-100% of wild honey bee colonies in Australia could die if varroa becomes established here, which would seriously reduce the amount of pollination services bees provide. On top of that, around 50-60% of Australian beekeepers (especially small-scale and semi-commercial ones) might have to leave the industry due to the extra work required to keep hives healthy and productive.
But all is not lost. There are steps we can take to try and prevent the spread of varroa and protect our bees. For example, testing is really important. By regularly checking for mites, we can catch outbreaks early and stop them from spreading. Australian beekeepers are required to check at least one hive for exotic mites twice a year using methods like sugar shakes, alcohol washes, or drone uncapping.
If you do find mites, make sure to report it to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline (1800 084 881).
Tracing the contacts of infected bees is also important. In the same way that we track and test people who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, we need to make sure that all beekeepers and their hives are registered with the state agriculture department. This helps us understand the biosecurity risks in different areas and reach out to beekeepers if there's an outbreak nearby. Make sure your hives are branded and your registration details are up to date to help with this process.
Finally, it takes everyone working together to fight the spread of varroa. Just like how we all have to do our part by following social distancing guidelines and wearing masks when needed, we all have to help keep an eye out for varroa. The National Bee Biosecurity Program has Bee Biosecurity Officers who work to reduce the risks of varroa and other pests, but they can't do it all on their own. All beekeepers, no matter how many hives they have or where they live, should check their hives regularly for exotic mites. So don't forget to keep washing your hands and checking your bees!
These tiny parasites are a lot like COVID-19 in that they spread easily and are tough to spot. If left unchecked, an outbreak of varroa could have major consequences for our bees.
It's estimated that up to 95-100% of wild honey bee colonies in Australia could die if varroa becomes established here, which would seriously reduce the amount of pollination services bees provide. On top of that, around 50-60% of Australian beekeepers (especially small-scale and semi-commercial ones) might have to leave the industry due to the extra work required to keep hives healthy and productive.
But all is not lost. There are steps we can take to try and prevent the spread of varroa and protect our bees. For example, testing is really important. By regularly checking for mites, we can catch outbreaks early and stop them from spreading. Australian beekeepers are required to check at least one hive for exotic mites twice a year using methods like sugar shakes, alcohol washes, or drone uncapping.
If you do find mites, make sure to report it to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline (1800 084 881).
Tracing the contacts of infected bees is also important. In the same way that we track and test people who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, we need to make sure that all beekeepers and their hives are registered with the state agriculture department. This helps us understand the biosecurity risks in different areas and reach out to beekeepers if there's an outbreak nearby. Make sure your hives are branded and your registration details are up to date to help with this process.
Finally, it takes everyone working together to fight the spread of varroa. Just like how we all have to do our part by following social distancing guidelines and wearing masks when needed, we all have to help keep an eye out for varroa. The National Bee Biosecurity Program has Bee Biosecurity Officers who work to reduce the risks of varroa and other pests, but they can't do it all on their own. All beekeepers, no matter how many hives they have or where they live, should check their hives regularly for exotic mites. So don't forget to keep washing your hands and checking your bees!
