I never thought in beekeeping that one of your greatest tools would be a cheap little cup to test for varroa mites. In beekeeping I am always learning new tricks and better ways to get the job done. I think testing for mites has been way over looked and needs to be addressed more often. Whenever I get talking with other beekeepers and we start discuss the joys of having bees around and how exciting it is about how fast they grow, it usually ends on "not sure why my hive died, they were so strong and big in the fall", "I'm not sure what else I should be doing". I always ask, what are you doing for mites? Are you testing? The usual response is "I didn't really do anything for mites" or "I just treat no matter what in the fall' or "I don't know what a mite test is or how to do one" or "I haven't seen any mites on the bees"... And this doesn't only cover the new beekeepers. There are plenty of 2nd, 3rd and 4th year beekeepers as well.
So lets jump into this one together and start a new habit or just make it a refresher on how we can take control of those dang mites that causes everyone so much headache.
This is a quick video on how to make a testing cup for the Varroa Destructor. It is easy to make and everyone should have one and should be using it on a monthly basis during the summer and fall. So what are you waiting for?
Need the hardware cloth? We can provide you with a small piece to complete the task. Just ask and we'll provide you one!
Check out our video "How To Test For Mites" to find out your mite count.