How to remove mites from bumblebees? - briefly
Treat the colony with a powdered sugar dusting to dislodge mites, then gently brush the bees and return them to the nest; repeat weekly during peak infestations. For persistent problems, apply a licensed acaricide formulated for bumblebees according to label directions.
How to remove mites from bumblebees? - in detail
Mite infestations weaken bumblebee colonies, reduce foraging efficiency, and can lead to colony collapse. Effective control requires a combination of preventive measures, monitoring, and targeted treatment.
Regular inspection of nests is essential. Examine brood cells, adult workers, and queens under a stereomicroscope or hand lens at least once a week during peak activity. Record mite counts and note any increase in mortality or abnormal behavior.
Treatment options include:
- Formic acid vaporization – apply a calibrated dispenser inside the nest box for 5–10 minutes, ensuring ventilation afterward. Use concentrations of 2–4 % to avoid bee mortality.
- Oxalic acid sugar syrup – prepare a 2 % solution, feed to the colony over two consecutive days. The syrup provides both nutrition and mite toxicity.
- Heat treatment – raise nest temperature to 40–45 °C for 30 minutes using a controlled heating device. Verify that temperature does not exceed 46 °C to prevent brood damage.
- Chemical miticides – employ products specifically labeled for bumblebees, following label rates and withdrawal periods. Rotate active ingredients to delay resistance.
Preventive practices reduce the need for chemical interventions. Maintain clean nesting material, replace old wax combs annually, and avoid overcrowding by providing adequate nesting space. Limit exposure to wildflower sources known to harbor high mite loads by rotating foraging sites.
After any treatment, re‑evaluate mite levels after 7–10 days. If counts remain above threshold (e.g., >5 mites per 100 workers), repeat the chosen method or combine two compatible treatments. Document all actions to refine future control protocols.