08/06/2026
When the small hive beetle takes hold... 🪲😭
Just a couple of weeks ago this colony was thriving.
We'd been focused on keeping varroa mites under control and ensuring the colony had enough space and stores for winter, but neglected to put our beetle traps back in.
Within a short period of time, deep inside the brood box, small hive beetles and their larvae had gained the upper hand.
We quickly removed the affected frames, found and protected the queen, and moved her along with as many bees as possible into a swarm box.
Now we're giving them a second chance.
The plan is to transfer what's left of the colony into a clean hive and support them through winter. It's not ideal timing, but bees can be incredibly resilient, and we're hopeful they're strong enough to pull through. 🙏🏼🐝
If you've battled small hive beetle before, I'd love to hear any tips or wisdom you can share below. 👇
👩🏼🏫 My lesson from this experience? Never underestimate those little black beetles. Some simple beetle traps may have changed the outcome of this story.
