An enjoyable PBKA Scolton Apiary training session was held this afternoon, with at least 20 members present, including two new to beekeeping. Weather held up, though a bit chilly and breezy. In addition to general hive inspections, we moved a nucleus colony into a hive, completed a trickle treatment of Oxalic acid on a recently … Continue reading Enjoyable apiary meeting!
Varroa
Possible reasons for winter losses!🐝
We have had reports of significant Honey Bee losses this winter. This can be for a variety of reasons including starvation, queen failure, undiagnosed/untreated disease, mite infestation, pesticides and of course, inclement weather. Beekeepers may find the attached from the NBU of interest and perhaps act as a timely reminder to keep their eye on … Continue reading Possible reasons for winter losses!🐝
Bee treatments and the recording of veterinary medicines
Beekeepers should regularly check their bees for signs of disease and infestations. Now is a good time to check and treat for Varroa, before Winter feeding commences. There are numerous permitted treatments available and you are required to keep records of treatment given. See below the advice given by the National Bee Unit (NBU). Record … Continue reading Bee treatments and the recording of veterinary medicines
Varroa warning!
I found this report in the Guardian, it tells of the catastrophic effect VAROA mites are having on bee colonies. The report is very worrying. It says Varoa are becoming resistant to miticides. Hopefully this link I share works and you can read the article for yourself. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jul/08/record-us-bee-colony-dieoffs-climate-stress-pesticides-silent-spring-aoe Peter Kirkup PBKA Asian Hornet Coordinator
NBU Fact Sheets
Please find attached links to the recently updated NBU factsheets that you may be interested in distributing in your newsletters etc to your members. Small Hive beetle advisory leaflet: This leaflet details the biology and impact of the invasive small hive beetle and provides guidance on how to identify and monitor for the presence of the … Continue reading NBU Fact Sheets