Hive Inspection, checking drones for mites question

DayValleyDahlias · June 11, 2007, 10:20:37 PM

Hi Folks,

I am opening the hive tomorrow...I was going to check some drone comb for mites...how exactly do I do that? Do I open with the hive tool? What do I do with the gunk that comes out?

Thank you,

Sharon

bbqbee · June 11, 2007, 10:27:26 PM

Sharon... I use a toothpick, wich I keep thredded through my veil, to poke open drone cells and fish out larve. Lots of times there are drone cells on top/bottom of frames that are pulled open when removing said frame. These opened cells are easy to inspect for mites. Hope this helps.
Bill in western Montana

DayValleyDahlias · June 12, 2007, 02:00:15 AM

Thanks Bill, thats a great idea!

Michael Bush · June 12, 2007, 07:56:56 AM

The best tool is a capping fork. I suppose a dinner fork could work. Toss the drone pupae on the ground.

KONASDAD · June 12, 2007, 10:45:40 AM

I often inspect those drone in between boxes that are opened by inspection. I occassionally find mites. About three mites per 25 drone or so.What kind of numbers are we looking for when drone trapping mites? (none!) How many is enough to be conscerned?

DayValleyDahlias · June 12, 2007, 11:47:53 AM

The last time I did that, there was one mite...I am hoping today, there will be one or fewer than one...

Michael Bush · June 13, 2007, 08:03:17 AM

I hardly ever see one. I suppose if I found one or more on most of the drones I'd be concerned.

DayValleyDahlias · June 13, 2007, 10:29:35 AM

I am relieved to say...I saw no mites,I realize that that does not mean they are not there...but, I am relieved none the less!

KONASDAD · June 13, 2007, 11:09:36 AM

Quote from: Michael Bush on June 13, 2007, 08:03:17 AM
I hardly ever see one. I suppose if I found one or more on most of the drones I'd be concerned.

I find on occassion one drone w/ 2 or 3 mites. None on the other 25 to 30 I inspect. And this is not everytime I inspect. Often cant find any mites in drone cells.