The lifecycle of a small hive beetle typically takes 3-12 weeks, depending on conditions like temperature, humidity, and available food sources. The stages of development consist of egg, larva, pupa, and adult beetle. Stage 1: Eggs…

Small hive beetle (SHB) can have a crippling effect on honey bees. Their mobility allows them to quickly move to new hives, especially those that appear vulnerable. The easiest way to avoid SHB is to practice…

The small hive beetle (SHB) is an invasive beehive pest that can destroy entire honey bee colonies. Originally from Africa’s sub-Sahara, they found their way to Florida in the 1990s and have aggressively established a foothold…

European foulbrood (EFB) is a destructive brood disease found on every continent where bees live. It is the dominant bacterial brood disease in the United Kingdom and is a growing problem for beekeepers in the rest…

Of all the brood diseases, American foulbrood is the most destructive. It may not be as common as varroa mite or small hive beetle, but it should be the most feared. Beekeepers have limited options when…

American foulbrood may not be as prevalent as it was a century ago, but it still brings catastrophic results to hives. If your hive is diagnosed with the disease, or you suspect it’s got it, you…

When Paenibacillus bacteria find their way into your hive it can have devastating effects on the colony. An understanding of what causes American foulbrood and how the spores are transferred will help beekeepers reduce the spread….

American foulbrood is a highly infectious brood disease caused by Paenibacillus larva , a spore-forming bacterium. Its spores live on hives and beekeeping equipment for decades, reinfecting new colonies as they arrive. Beekeepers should take foulbrood…