What Is Black Queen Cell Virus? An Essential Guide
Black queen cell virus (BQCV) is a disease that kills queen bee larvae or prepupae. Caused by the virus Cripavirus genus, it turns the developing bee yellow and eventually brownish-black….
What Is Sacbrood? A Beekeeper’s Guide
Sacbrood is a viral infection that affects the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) and the Eastern honey bee (Apis cerana). Caused by the sacbrood virus (SBV), this bee brood disease…
What Is Stonebrood? A Beekeeper’s Reference Guide
Stonebrood is a rare, short-lived fungal disease affecting adult honey bees and their larvae. The fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus fumigatus infect larvae, causing them to mummify before hatching. Bee…
What Is Tracheal Mite? + Bonus Printable Guide
The tracheal mite (Acarapis woodi) is a microscopic parasite that infests honey bee colonies. It targets the tracheae or breathing tubes of the bee to develop, feed, and reproduce. Infestations…
What Is Chalkbrood? + Free Printable Guide
Chalkbrood is a honey bee disease caused by the fungus Ascosphaera apis. If untreated, it mummifies developed larvae, disrupting hive activity and reducing honey production. Although chalkbrood rarely kills the…
What Is Braula Fly? A Beekeeper’s Guide
The braula fly is a tiny wingless fly with a flat, reddish body that beekeepers sometimes mistake for varroa mites. Found on every continent with bees, this insect is a…
How Many Beehives To Start Beekeeping?
Do you want to start beekeeping but don’t know how many hives are optimal? A single hive may not be worth your time, while too many hives for a beginner…
How To Crush And Strain Honey [8 Simple Steps]
Extracting honey from the comb can be as simple or complicated as you make it. While an extractor makes light work of frames, the crush and strain method is still…
9 Tips For Beekeepers To Stay Cool During Hot Summer Days
Beekeeping in hot weather can be detrimental to both your health and productivity. It’s crucial to stay cool and maintain a comfortable working environment. Here are nine practical tips for…
History | Beekeeping | Equipment | Tools
The History Of Honey Extractors – 1864 to 2024
Honey extraction wasn’t always the efficient process we know today. The invention of the honey extractor was a game-changing innovation, allowing honey removal without destroying the honeycomb. This guide unravels…