The team, led by Dr Stephen Martin from the University of Sheffield working in Hawaii, has identified how Varroa results in a lethal strain of the Deformed Wing Virus becoming dominant in the bee colony. See coverage of the report on the BBC Nature or, better, the Guardian website.
Bee Health
Starvation Risk – Advice from the National Bee Unit
With the on-going poor weather, there is a real risk of bee colonies starving. "Please check for stores in the colony and if in any doubt feed your bees. You should feed with either a fondant or a thin syrup [PBKA feed mix ready reckoner]. Further information on feeding bees can be found in Best … Continue reading Starvation Risk – Advice from the National Bee Unit
Do your bees have enough stores?
Given the relatively cool weather we are having at the moment which is limiting foraging activity and the increasing size of our colonies, lack of stores is a serious threat. It is advised therefore, that you check your colonies for stores and feed if required. Do not assume however, that you can gauge the level of stores … Continue reading Do your bees have enough stores?
Nosema Testing Workshop April 15 2012
Nosema can build up in overwintering colonies and to cause early death of bees. Members are reminded to bring along a sample of bees from each hive to the Picton Community Centre, Haverfordwest on Sunday April 15th between 2.00 pm and 5.00 pm to test them for nosema. The Association's new microscopes will be on display and … Continue reading Nosema Testing Workshop April 15 2012
Neoticotinoid Insecticide Poisoning – The Evidence Grows
About 30 per cent of British cropland – 3.14 million acres – was being treated with neonicotinoid chemicals in 2010. Reports published in the journal Science on March 29th from British and French scientists, and extensively reported in the UK press today, confirm that both honey bees and bumble bees are seriously harmed by exposure to neonicotinoid … Continue reading Neoticotinoid Insecticide Poisoning – The Evidence Grows
