Podcasts about Varroa

Summer heat brings a familiar sight to many beekeepers: honey bees clustered outside the hive entrance, hanging from the landing board, and covering the front of the colony. In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew reflects on what beekeepers often call "bearding" and shares memories from decades of working bees in the heat of the Deep South. Jim explains why colonies gather outside during hot weather and why this behavior is often a normal part of colony temperature regulation rather than a sign of trouble. From long days in Alabama bee yards to late-night pollination moves, he recalls the challenges of managing large colonies when temperatures remain high long after sunset. Along the way, Jim shares stories about moving bees for pollination, dealing with protective clothing before modern ventilated suits existed, encountering rattlesnakes and black widow spiders in remote bee yards, and learning valuable lessons from commercial beekeepers about transporting colonies safely. The discussion also turns to the many other creatures attracted to an apiary. Deer, raccoons, skunks, bears, spiders, and countless other animals often become part of the larger ecosystem surrounding honey bee colonies. Part practical beekeeping discussion and part personal reflection, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how honey bees cope with summer heat and how a lifetime of beekeeping experiences can be triggered by something as simple as a cluster of bees gathered outside the hive on a warm evening. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

The Honey Bee Health Coalition just released the 9th edition of the  Varroa Management Guide. For many beekeepers, this guide has become the go-to reference for cutting through misinformation and focusing on proven, research-backed practices. With this latest edition, the Coalition has made meaningful updates that reflect the increasing difficulty of controlling Varroa, even when best practices are followed. One of the most important changes is the adjustment of treatment thresholds. Becky points out that previous thresholds may not have been aggressive enough, particularly in environments where reinfestation pressure is high. The updated guide now takes a more responsive approach, incorporating seasonal context and more precise mite level guidance. In addition, the guide expands treatment options and improves decision-making frameworks. It integrates key variables such as temperature, brood presence, and honey production timing—helping beekeepers choose the right treatment at the right time while minimizing unintended consequences. Jeff emphasizes the ongoing challenge Varroa presents in the apiary, reinforcing the need for reliable guidance grounded in science. Together, he and Becky encourage listeners to download and study the updated guide, making it a central part of their Varroa management strategy. This short episode serves as both an announcement and a reminder: effective Varroa management requires staying current, adapting strategies, and relying on trusted resources. Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Beekeepers often think of wax production as something that simply happens when colonies build comb. But what if bees are constantly moving wax throughout the hive, recycling it from one location to another as colony needs change? This week, Jeff and Becky welcome Massachusetts beekeeper Dave Wade to discuss his observations and experiments exploring how honey bees utilize and relocate wax within the colony. Dave's journey into beekeeping began nearly twenty years ago when concerns about pollination of backyard fruit trees led him to a local bee school. Since then, he has become an active member of the Worcester County Beekeepers Association and developed a reputation for practical experimentation and careful observation in the bee yard. The discussion focuses on Dave's work providing supplemental wax directly to colonies. Using strips and rolls of beeswax foundation placed inside frames, Dave has observed colonies rapidly incorporating the wax into comb construction, brood nest expansion, honey storage, and comb repairs. His experiments suggest that bees readily utilize available wax resources, especially later in the season when natural wax production slows. Dave shares results from several years of observations, including the use of colored wax to visually track wax movement within colonies. Collaborating with researchers including Dr. David Tarpy, Dr. Michael Smith, and Dr. David Peck, Dave has documented evidence that bees relocate wax significant distances throughout the hive, supporting brood rearing, honey capping, and comb construction. The conversation explores seasonal wax production, comb reduction, honey-bound colonies, package bee development, plastic versus wax foundation, and practical methods beekeepers can use to encourage comb building later in the season. Dave also discusses how supplemental wax may reduce colony energy expenditures and potentially improve colony productivity. Whether you're establishing new colonies, drawing foundation, managing honey-bound hives, or simply fascinated by honey bee behavior, this episode offers a fresh look at one of the colony's most important building materials. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Concerns for farmland and water as AI data centres proposed for rural SA, Farina Station is the state's far north sells at auction for $2.75million amid strong interest, and Australian research continues to find new non-chemical methods to control varroa mite.

The North American Honey Bee Expo is expanding for 2027, and organizer Kamon Reynolds joins Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman to share what attendees, educators, and prospective speakers can expect at next year's event. Kamon discusses the Expo's continued growth, plans for additional presentation rooms, expanded educational tracks, and a formal call for speaker submissions. The goal is to broaden the range of topics available to attendees by introducing new subject areas, specialized beekeeping interests, emerging research, honey production techniques, fermentation with honey, honey shows, and other educational opportunities that may not fit traditional conference programming. The conversation also highlights the new Beginning Beekeeping Short Course being developed in partnership with Beekeeping Today. Designed specifically for newer beekeepers, the course will provide foundational instruction while helping participants take advantage of the broader educational opportunities available throughout the Expo. Kamon explains what he looks for when selecting speakers, emphasizing practical value, educational quality, and effective presentation skills. He encourages researchers, commercial beekeepers, sideliners, specialty hive practitioners, honey judges, and innovative beekeepers of all experience levels to submit proposals. Additional discussion covers attendance growth, hotel accommodations, expanded Thursday programming, international outreach, support for Australian beekeepers dealing with Varroa, and the importance of building community through large-scale beekeeping events. Whether you're interested in presenting, attending, networking, or expanding your beekeeping knowledge, this episode provides an early look at what's planned for the 2027 North American Honey Bee Expo. Registration and conference information can be found at: North American Honey Bee Expo Speaker Series Application Aussie Outreach ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this Honey Bee Obscura Archive Special, Jim Tew and Kim Flottum revisit an important topic that becomes increasingly relevant as summer progresses: working bees in the heat of summer. As colonies reach peak population and honey supers become heavier, beekeeping becomes more physically demanding. Jim reflects on how beekeeping changes between the pleasant days of spring and the demanding conditions of midsummer, when heat, humidity, heavier equipment, and defensive colonies can turn routine inspections into challenging work. Drawing on article research and discussions conducted with the late Ann Harman, Kim explains the physiological dangers associated with working bees in hot weather. The discussion covers heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, including warning signs that beekeepers should recognize before serious medical issues develop. Kim emphasizes that heat-related illness can affect beekeepers of any age and experience level. The conversation explores practical strategies for reducing heat stress while working colonies, including scheduling inspections during cooler parts of the day, taking advantage of shade, staying hydrated before and during bee work, using modern ventilated veils, carrying water into the apiary, and recognizing when conditions require stopping work and returning another day. Jim and Kim also discuss the importance of safety planning, particularly for beekeepers working alone. Topics include informing family members of bee yard locations, carrying communication devices, understanding emergency response considerations, and avoiding the temptation to push through fatigue simply to finish a task. Although originally recorded years ago, the advice remains highly relevant for beekeepers facing summer temperatures, humidity, and physically demanding colony management tasks. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Fuel and fertiliser concerns push SA farmer confidence into negative territory despite a better season rainfall-wise, research into an alternative to shearing to remove sheep fleece enters a new phase, and beekeepers gather at the SA Apiarists Association Conference to hear challenges & opportunities in varroa treatment.

Three more government-backed urea shipments expected to arrive for Australian farmers in the coming weeks, a fertiliser importer says the government's intervention has distorted the market and hurt competition, and PIRSA confirms the detection of treatment resistant varroa mite in the Riverland.

Moving package bees across North America is a specialized business that most beekeepers never see firsthand. In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome Chris Hansen of Rhinelander, Wisconsin, a longtime beekeeper, bee supplier, and professional package bee hauler, to discuss the unique challenges of transporting thousands of honey bees safely across the country. Chris shares how his beekeeping journey began nearly thirty years ago and how a small sideline operation gradually expanded into bee sales, a beekeeping supply business, and eventually a dedicated package bee transportation company. What started as a necessity to move his own bees evolved into a specialized service trusted by beekeepers throughout the United States. The conversation explores the science and logistics of package bee transportation, including airflow management, temperature control, loading and unloading procedures, route planning, driver coordination, and the importance of minimizing stress on the bees during transit. Chris explains how years of experience and trial-and-error led to the development of specialized trailers designed specifically to move large numbers of package bees safely over long distances. Chris also discusses the realities of operating a trucking business, including fuel costs, regulatory requirements, equipment investments, driver recruitment, and the responsibility that comes with transporting living livestock. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from early failures and the continual refinements that have improved bee survival and package quality. Before the interview, Jeff and Becky discuss honey super timing, spring nectar flows, colony growth, swarm prevention, and answer a listener question about common misconceptions among third-year beekeepers. Whether you manage two colonies or two thousand, this episode provides a fascinating look behind the scenes at one of the least-discussed but most essential parts of modern beekeeping. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Hansen's Honey Farm website: https://hansenhoneyfarm.com Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this reflective episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Dr. Jim Tew walks back to his bee yard after several days of rain and immediately confronts a familiar challenge: grass and weeds that have grown well beyond manageable height. What begins as a discussion about mowing quickly becomes a thoughtful examination of aging, beekeeping alone, and adapting expectations to changing circumstances. Jim candidly shares the realities of maintaining an apiary at seventy-eight years old. Managing thirteen thriving colonies, coping with allergies, operating equipment in summer heat, and maintaining property without assistance all raise practical questions about how beekeeping changes over time. Rather than seeking sympathy, Jim explores the adjustments that many longtime beekeepers eventually face as physical limitations become part of the craft. The discussion turns to vegetation management around the apiary, including his experiences with naturally occurring wildflower growth, the challenges of maintaining access paths, and his decision to avoid herbicides despite their widespread historical use in beekeeping operations. Jim reviews current discussions surrounding glyphosate and reflects on changing attitudes toward chemical weed control. Along the way, he provides updates on two recently captured swarms, discusses the resilience of small colonies, and shares observations about natural comb construction. His curiosity about how bees build and reinforce comb leads to broader thoughts on natural nest architecture, propolis use, and how much traditional beekeeping may have overlooked about honey bee biology. Throughout the episode, Jim offers an honest and personal perspective on continuing to care for bees later in life while balancing practical realities, physical limitations, and a lifelong fascination with honey bees. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, Amy Vu and Dr. Jamie Ellis discuss Varroa biology, evolution, and control with Dr. Nurit Eliash, Research Fellow at the Honey Bees & Mites Lab at the University of Haifa in Israel. Check out our website: www.ufhoneybee.com for additional resources from today's episode. 

Jennie Durant, PhD, joins Beekeeping Today to discuss her new book, Bitter Honey: Big Ag's Threat to the Bees and the Fight to Save Them. Drawing from more than fifteen years of research, interviews, and fieldwork, Jennie explores the complex relationship between commercial beekeeping and modern agriculture. She shares how her interest in honey bees began during her graduate studies in the Philippines and eventually led to a PhD focused on the challenges facing managed pollinators in large-scale agricultural systems. Jennie discusses the evolution of commercial beekeeping in response to the growing demand for almond pollination and how intensified management practices—including supplemental feeding, migratory pollination, and aggressive mite control—have become necessary to maintain colony health and profitability. She explains how habitat loss, monoculture agriculture, pesticide exposure, climate change, and economic pressures have created a difficult environment for both beekeepers and bees. The conversation also explores the often-contentious discussions surrounding honey bees and native pollinators. Jennie emphasizes that habitat loss is the underlying issue affecting all pollinators and advocates for expanding forage resources rather than framing the discussion as a competition between species. Becky and Jeff discuss the importance of habitat restoration, pollinator-friendly land management, and the role beekeepers can play in supporting broader conservation efforts. Jennie highlights organizations such as the Bee and Butterfly Habitat Fund and discusses practical actions individuals can take to improve forage availability for pollinators. She also shares stories gathered while researching the book, including the challenges commercial beekeepers have faced in obtaining effective mite treatments over the years. Throughout the discussion, Jennie provides a thoughtful and balanced perspective on the realities facing modern beekeeping while offering hope through examples of innovative habitat projects, conservation programs, and collaborative efforts aimed at improving conditions for managed and native bees alike. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Bitter Honey: Big Ag's Threat to the Bees and the Fight to Save Them on Amazon Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Australia on track to produce the nation's biggest ever crop of lentils, a new report finds Australian ag "desperately under prepared" for a shortage of honey bee pollination, and South Australians recognised for their contribution to the ag sector in King's Birthday honours.

Ακούστε την εβδομαδιαία ανταπόκριση από την ΒρισβάνηΟι μελισσοκόμοι του Κουίνσλαντ αντιμετωπίζουν σοβαρές οικονομικές επιβαρύνσεις λόγω των παρασιτικών ακάρεων βαρρόα, καθώς μελισσοκομίες καταστρέφονται.Τον Μάρτιο του 2025, το Varroa destructor εμφανίστηκε για πρώτη φορά σε κυψέλες μελισσών στο Κουίνσλαντ. Πιστεύεται ότι το παρασιτικό αυτό είναι θανατηφόρο για τις ευρωπαϊκές μέλισσες και μεταφέρθηκε στο Scenic Rim από τη Νέα Νότια Ουαλία, η οποία αντιμετωπίζει το πρόβλημα από το 2022. Μόλις ένα χρόνο αργότερα, εκτιμάται ότι το 90% των αποικιών άγριων μελισσών στη νοτιοανατολική Κουίνσλαντ έχει καταρρεύσει, ενώ σχεδόν όλες οι διαχειριζόμενες αποικίες δίνουν μάχη επιβίωσης. Οι δυτικοευρωπαϊκές μέλισσες βρίσκονται στην Αυστραλία εδώ και 200 χρόνια και είναι υπεύθυνες για το μεγαλύτερο μέρος της επικονίασης που απαιτείται για την καλλιέργεια τροφίμων. Τα μακαντάμια, τα μάνγκο και τα αβοκάντο είναι μερικά από τα προϊόντα του Κουίνσλαντ που εξαρτώνται περισσότερο από αυτές.Νέες θεραπείες κατά της βαρρόα είναι ήδη διαθέσιμες στο εξωτερικό και η αυστραλιανή κυβέρνηση εργάζεται για την έγκρισή τους. -Η Επιτροπή του Ελληνικού Ραδιοφωνικού Προγράμματος του Πολυεθνικού Σταθμού 4EB της πόλης μας καλεί και φέτος την Ελληνική Παροικία να συνεχίσει την εγγραφή της στον εν λόγω σταθμό, έτσι ώστε να συνεχίζει να μεταδίδεται η ελληνική φωνή και τα προγράμματά του στις καθιερωμένες ώρες εκπομπής.Επίσης, μέλη των ελληνικών προγραμμάτων του 4EB θα βρίσκονται στις ελληνικές εκκλησίες της πόλης μας κάθε Κυριακή πρωί, για επανεγγραφή ή εγγραφή νέων μελών στον πολυεθνικό σταθμό.

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew heads into the bee yard to check on five package colonies installed earlier in the spring. What begins as a routine inspection quickly becomes a reminder of how rapidly healthy colonies can develop during a favorable season. Each colony is thriving, filling its equipment and signaling that additional space will soon be needed to prevent overcrowding and potential swarming. Jim also revisits a topic familiar to many beekeepers: heavily propolized colonies. After several challenging years that limited regular hive inspections, he discusses the realities of managing frames that have become firmly glued in place. This leads to a field test of an oscillating multi-tool as a possible aid for cutting through propolis and freeing stuck frames. Working directly in the apiary, Jim evaluates whether the tool offers practical value or is simply another interesting beekeeping experiment. Along the way, he shares observations about package colony growth, the effects of warm weather on propolis consistency, the challenges of working with plastic frames in heavily propolized colonies, and his continuing curiosity about beekeepers who successfully manage colonies in a single deep brood chamber. As always, Jim combines practical observations, honest field notes, and thoughtful questions from a lifetime of beekeeping experience. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this spring 2026 edition of Regional Beekeepers, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome a familiar panel of beekeepers from across North America to compare notes on how the season is unfolding in their respective regions. Joining the discussion are Ang Roell (Northeast), Bonnie Morse (Northern California), Duane Combs (Arizona), Jay Williams (Tennessee), and Paul Longwell (Pacific Northwest). The conversation highlights the remarkable regional differences in weather, nectar flows, colony buildup, and honey production. Duane reports one of Arizona's best honey seasons in decades following unusually wet conditions, while Bonnie describes strong honey production in California alongside increasing concerns about Varroa mites and small hive beetles. Ang shares updates on queen breeding and a new research project examining the heritability of Varroa-sensitive hygiene traits. Jay discusses challenges caused by a difficult winter, late queen production, and his early experiences with the new mite-control product Norroa. Varroa management remains a central topic, with panelists comparing treatment strategies, discussing oxalic acid applications, Formic Pro, VarroxSan, and emerging approaches to mite control. The conversation naturally expands into small hive beetles, producing both practical advice and several memorable stories from the field. The group also shares lessons learned from mistakes, unexpected setbacks, and successful innovations. Topics range from hurricane recovery and extreme desert heat to transporting bees, honey marketing, 3D-printed beekeeping tools, agritourism experiences, honey tastings, and bee-centered wellness programs. As always, the Regional Beekeepers episode provides a valuable snapshot of beekeeping conditions across the continent while highlighting the creativity, resilience, and good humor of working beekeepers. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Jim Tew welcomes his grandson, Will Laditka, back to Honey Bee Obscura for a candid conversation about the realities of learning beekeeping as a young beginner. Will reflects on losing his first colonies, the emotional impact of what initially appeared to be American Foulbrood, and how those difficult experiences ultimately strengthened his understanding of honey bee management. Jim and Will discuss the importance of learning through setbacks, the challenge of managing Varroa, and why resilience is one of the most important qualities for new beekeepers. The discussion also explores how beekeeping intersects with education and communication. Will shares how he recently used beekeeping as the subject of a college speech presentation, explaining basic hive equipment, bee communication, pheromones, and colony behavior to classmates unfamiliar with bees. The conversation highlights how honey bees can engage audiences far outside traditional beekeeping circles. Jim and Will also compare beginner beekeeping experiences across generations. Jim reflects on the simplicity and affordability of starting beekeeping decades ago, while Will explains how modern equipment costs and management expectations can make entering the hobby more difficult for younger beekeepers today. Together, they discuss how beekeeping has evolved while still maintaining the same lessons of patience, observation, and continual learning. This episode offers thoughtful perspective for beginning beekeepers, especially younger listeners navigating the steep learning curve of modern honey bee management. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Beekeeping Today welcomes back two familiar voices in honey bee education: Dr. Robyn Underwood and Ana Heck. Together, they discuss the growing role of the Apicultural Extension Educators of America (AEEA) and how extension professionals are helping connect beekeepers with trusted, science-based information across the United States. Jeff and Becky begin the episode with a seasonal conversation about swarming management and aggressive spring splitting strategies before turning to this week's Hive IQ listener question on introducing mated queens successfully into colonies. Ana and Robyn share practical field-tested approaches for improving queen acceptance, including push-in cages, timing considerations, queen cage positioning, and the importance of confirming colonies are truly queenless before introducing a new queen. The discussion then shifts to extension education itself — what extension educators do, why they matter, and how they serve as a bridge between university research and practical beekeeping application. Ana and Robyn explain how AEEA grew from informal monthly "happy hour" discussions into a collaborative national network of extension educators, researchers, inspectors, and outreach professionals sharing resources, programs, and educational materials. Listeners will also learn about the new AEEA website, future plans for regionally organized educational resources, and why many states still lack dedicated apiculture extension positions. Becky highlights the value these programs provide to local beekeepers, while Jeff encourages listeners to support and advocate for extension resources within their own states. This episode offers valuable insight into the people working behind the scenes to improve beekeeper education, strengthen honey bee health outreach, and make trusted information more accessible nationwide. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Apicultureal Extension Educators of America (AEEA):  https://www.bee-educated.org Penn State Extension Beekeeping Resources: https://extension.psu.edu/beekeeping-resources Michigan State University Pollinator Initiative: https://pollinators.msu.edu BeeSwarm.org on Beekeeping Today: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/381-bee-swarmed-with-mateo/ Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this final installment of the "Wayward Swarm" saga, Dr. Jim Tew and Jason Ferrell return to the colony that has caused more trouble, worry, and excitement than either expected. After multiple attempts to recover and hive the swarm — including ladders, falls, cold weather, bee vacuums, overloaded trap cages, and weeks of uncertainty — Jim finally opens the hive for the first inspection. What they discover surprises both of them. Despite losing a significant number of bees during the ordeal and never once seeing the queen after the swarm was collected, the colony survived. Jim and Jason find eggs and young larvae spread across multiple frames, confirming that the queen successfully survived the swarm capture, the transfer, and the difficult conditions that followed. Along the way, Jim reflects on how quickly beekeeping can shift from "not enough bees" to "too many bees," especially after unexpectedly strong overwintered colonies and package installations. He also shares thoughts on aging in the bee yard, the realities of ladder work, swarm management decisions, and the unpredictable nature of small mating swarms. The discussion also touches on package colony buildup, swarm behavior, queen survival, feeding small colonies, and the strange tendency for swarms to revisit the same locations. Mostly, though, this episode captures the humor, frustration, and satisfaction that often accompany real-world beekeeping. As Jim says, this may well become "a beautiful three or four segment issue on how not to hive a swarm." ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Ang Roell of They Keep Bees joins Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman for another installment of the Beekeeping Today Podcast Queen Series. Ang shares the story behind building a migratory queen breeding operation and explains how years of working with Carniolan, Russian, and hygienic stock shaped the breeding philosophy behind their Massachusetts-based apiary. The conversation explores the realities of raising queens professionally, including drone saturation, mating yards, queen cells, virgins, instrumental insemination, and the challenges of selecting for Varroa-sensitive hygienic behavior while maintaining strong overwintering performance in northern climates. Ang discusses how They Keep Bees evaluates breeder queens using hygienic testing, mite washes, and Harbo assays, while also participating in collaborative research projects examining the heritability of hygienic traits. Jeff and Becky also discuss the growing interest in queen cells and virgin queens among smaller-scale beekeepers and why understanding these systems can improve overall beekeeping management. Ang explains practical approaches to walkaway splits, late-season nucleus production, and why there is no "silver bullet" queen when it comes to Varroa management. Throughout the episode, Ang emphasizes the importance of curiosity, experimentation, collaboration between scientists and working beekeepers, and building locally adapted stock that thrives within regional nectar flows and winter conditions. It is an insightful conversation for beekeepers interested in genetics, queen production, sustainable stock selection, and the future of honey bee breeding. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: They Keep Bees: https://theykeepbees.com SARE (Sustianable Agricultural Research and Education):  https://www.sare.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this third installment of The Wayward Swarm, Jim Tew returns to the now-infamous swarm hanging high in a tree after days of cold rain and falling temperatures. Joined by longtime beekeeper friend Jason Ferrell, Jim attempts one final rescue effort for what may be one of the largest — and most ill-fated — swarms either of them has encountered. What follows is raw, field-recorded beekeeping under miserable spring conditions. With temperatures hovering near 40°F, rain moving through, and the cluster weakening by the hour, Jim and Jason attempt an improvised bee vacuum recovery involving ladders, extension cords, slippery footing, failing equipment, and more determination than good judgment. Along the way, listeners hear the difficult reality of swarm survival, the limits of intervention, and the emotional pull that keeps beekeepers trying even when the odds are poor. This episode captures beekeeping exactly as it sometimes is: exhausting, frustrating, uncertain, and deeply human. Jim's candid narration and Jason's steady assistance make this one of the most memorable "Plain Talk" field episodes yet released on Honey Bee Obscura. Will the swarm survive? At the time of recording, even Jim doesn't know. But listeners will experience every step of the attempt. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Varroaresistenz 2033 I Varroa 2033 - Der Podcast In dieser Folge spricht Marie mit Juhani aus Finnland. Er behandelt seit 18 Jahren nicht mehr gegen die Varroamilbe. Wie es dazu gekommen ist, was die aktuelle Situation in Finnland ist und was aus Juhanis Sicht die Herausforderungen sind, darüber tauschen die beiden sich aus. Schaut für mehr Informationen von Juhani auf seinen Blog: https://naturebees.wordpress.com Weitere Infos zu VR 2033 unter https://varroaresistenzprojekt.eu.

In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman continue their queen-focused spring series with longtime beekeeper, researcher, and educator Randy Oliver and commercial beekeeper Eric Oliver. The conversation explores the realities of large-scale selective breeding for Varroa-resistant honey bees and the development of the Golden West queen line. Randy explains how his operation shifted toward breeding for mite resistance after discovering a colony in 2015 that consistently maintained zero Varroa counts without treatment. That colony became "Queen Zero," launching a years-long selective breeding effort focused on resistance, gentleness, and honey production. Eric discusses how the operation evolved from occasional mite sampling into full-operation mite washing programs involving thousands of colonies, streamlined systems, and detailed tracking methods. The discussion covers the importance of drone saturation, isolated mating yards, and why successful breeding programs require cooperation among large groups of beekeepers. Randy and Eric explain their partnership with Olivarez Honey Bees to scale Golden West queen production while preserving genetic consistency through controlled mating environments. Jeff and Becky also discuss how healthier bees change the overall beekeeping experience, from colony management and overwintering to reduced chemical inputs and calmer hive behavior. Randy shares his views on breeding for gentleness, avoiding "Frankenbee" genetics, and why maintaining a stable breeding population is essential for long-term progress against Varroa mites. The episode also includes a listener question from Anne Bettencourt about how long beginning beekeepers should keep colonies open during inspections, leading to a thoughtful discussion on balancing learning opportunities with colony health and productivity. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Scientific Beekeeping: https://scientificbeekeeping.com Olivarez Honey Bees: https://www.ohbees.com/ Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew delivers a candid, field-side reflection on the challenges—and realities—of swarm management when conditions, equipment, and personal limitations don't align. What begins as a routine observation quickly turns into a frustrating and physically risky attempt to retrieve a swarm positioned just out of safe reach. Jim walks listeners through his decision-making in real time: weighing experience against instinct, confronting the temptation to "just try one more time," and ultimately recognizing the limits that come with age, safety, and practicality. The episode explores a common but often under-discussed scenario: when a swarm simply won't cooperate. Despite repeated shaking attempts, the bees persistently return to their chosen limb, demonstrating the strength of their cohesion and site fidelity. Jim reflects on possible reasons for swarm behavior, including whether the queen failed to leave initially, how scent cues reinforce clustering, and whether scout activity or indecision plays a role in swarm reversals. Equally important is the emotional side of beekeeping—wanting to intervene, knowing when to stop, and accepting loss. Jim shares the internal conflict between letting bees follow their natural course and the beekeeper's instinct to act. This is "plain talk" beekeeping at its core: practical, honest, and grounded in experience. The takeaway is clear—sometimes the best decision is not to climb the ladder. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this continuation of the Queen Series, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Dr. Juliana Rangel of Texas A&M University for an in-depth discussion on honey bee queen biology, mating behavior, and the often-overlooked role of drones in colony success. Juliana shares her journey into honey bee research, beginning with stingless bees in Brazil and leading to her current work on queen reproductive biology. The conversation explores the complexity of queen mating, from orientation flights to drone congregation areas, and the many variables that influence successful mating—especially weather, timing, and environmental conditions. A key takeaway is how much remains unknown. Despite decades of research, fundamental questions—such as where queens consistently mate and how mating locations are determined—are still being revisited with new technologies like RFID tracking. The discussion highlights the importance of drone quality and diversity, emphasizing that drones contribute half the genetics of a colony. Poor drone health or limited mating opportunities can directly impact queen longevity and colony productivity. Juliana also explains how pesticide exposure and contaminated wax can disrupt normal mating patterns, sometimes leading to excessive mating or reduced sperm viability. Queen development is another critical factor. Queens raised from older larvae may appear functional but result in significantly reduced colony performance. Proper grafting practices remain essential, especially for small-scale queen producers. The episode closes with practical advice for beekeepers: observe queen retinue behavior, maintain good records, and reconsider the value of drones within colonies. Juliana also shares updates on her current research in Colombia and a new international project investigating queen mating dynamics and environmental stressors. This conversation reinforces a central theme: queen quality is multifactorial, and improving it requires attention to genetics, nutrition, environment, and management practices. For additional information where honey bees mate, listen to our conversation with Dr. Gard Otis in episode 378. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Texas A&M Honey Bee Lab: https://honeybeelab.tamu.edu Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew brings listeners along for a raw, unfiltered walk through his apiary during one of beekeeping's most unpredictable seasons. After expecting significant winter losses, Jim ordered five packages—only to discover that many of his colonies survived. What follows is a practical and honest look at the realities of managing too many bees, not enough equipment, and the financial weight of modern beekeeping.  Working through newly installed packages, Jim shares his "slipshod beekeeping" approach—using improvised feeding methods, mismatched equipment, and minimal intervention—while still focusing on the fundamentals: ensuring queens are released, colonies are stable, and resources are protected from stronger hives during seasonal nectar gaps. Midway through the episode, everything shifts. A strong colony unexpectedly swarms, offering a vivid, real-time reminder that even experienced beekeepers can misjudge colony strength and behavior. Jim walks through the moment as it unfolds, reflecting on swarm dynamics, colony pressure, and the humbling nature of working with honey bees. This episode is a grounded reminder that beekeeping rarely goes exactly as planned—and that adaptability, observation, and a bit of humility go a long way. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman sit down with Dr. Sammy Ramsey to explore his role in the National Geographic docuseries Secrets of the Bees. What began as a science communication opportunity quickly evolved into a multi-year collaboration blending research, storytelling, and cinematic production. Sammy shares how he contributed as a producer, helping shape the scientific direction of the series while ensuring that even experienced beekeepers would discover something new. The goal wasn't just education—it was surprise. Even seasoned listeners may find themselves rethinking what they know about honey bees. The conversation dives into the creative process behind the series, including collaboration with renowned filmmaker James Cameron and a team of world-class cinematographers. Sammy also reveals his unexpected contribution to the soundtrack, adding subtle vocal elements that enhance the emotional tone of key scenes. A standout moment discussed is the dramatic depiction of Varroa mites interacting with resistant honey bee colonies—highlighting cutting-edge breeding work from the USDA. These scenes underscore both the challenges bees face and the progress being made through research. The series, available on Disney+ and Hulu, has quickly risen to become a top-performing show, reflecting growing public interest in pollinators and their ecosystems. Beyond the visuals, Sammy emphasizes a deeper goal: fostering interspecies empathy. By presenting the world from the perspective of the bee, the series invites viewers to connect emotionally with these essential insects in a way few productions have achieved. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on honey bees—whether you're a beginner or a seasoned beekeeper—this series delivers. Secrets of the Bees Website: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/show/99802a2f-9b71-40fe-b3e0-39042897fa26 ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman launch a new series focused on honey bee queens with leading researcher Dr. David Tarpy. From the start, the conversation challenges a common oversimplification: the queen is not just an "egg-laying machine," but part of a dynamic, cooperative system shaped by both biology and worker perception. Tarpy explains that queen quality extends beyond visible traits like brood pattern. Instead, it includes physical characteristics such as body size, mating success, and sperm viability—factors that set the upper limit, or "ceiling," of colony performance. However, he emphasizes that brood pattern is often a colony-level trait, influenced as much by workers, environment, and disease pressure as by the queen herself. A key insight from the discussion is that colonies do not evaluate queens based solely on pheromones produced by the queen. Brood pheromones and, importantly, the workers' ability to perceive those signals play a major role in whether a queen is accepted or replaced. This helps explain why strong queens are sometimes superseded while weaker ones persist. The conversation also explores the impact of queen handling and shipping. Temperature stress—both overheating and chilling—can reduce sperm viability without visibly harming the queen, leading to premature failure later in the season. For beekeepers, this underscores the importance of careful handling between receipt and installation. Tarpy shares insights from his long-running queen health clinic, where most "problem queens" sent in for analysis turn out to be biologically sound. In many cases, environmental factors such as pesticide exposure or colony stress are the underlying issue. This episode sets the stage for the series by reframing how beekeepers think about queens—not as isolated individuals, but as part of a complex, responsive colony system. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: North Carolina State Apiculture Program: https://www.ncsuapiculture.net North Carolina State Queen & Disease Clinic: https://pollinators.ces.ncsu.edu/apiculture/queen-disease-clinic/   Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

SA makes more changes to commercial and recreational fishing rules following "positive" algal bloom test results, veggie growers campaign against any plans to place transmission lines and towers through key production land, and the honey bee industry calls for a fresh investigation into how varroa mite reached Australian shores.

Jim Tew and Anne Frey return for Part 2 of their discussion on honey bee packages, continuing a practical and often humorous look at the realities of installing packages and managing queens in the early season. Picking up where they left off, the conversation dives deeper into real-world beekeeper experiences—especially the unexpected challenges that arise when beginners misunderstand the basics of package installation. Jim and Anne share stories that highlight just how confusing early beekeeping can be without proper guidance, from customers who never installed their bees into a hive to unusual queen introduction mistakes that led to colony failure. These examples reinforce a central theme: beekeeping is simple in concept, but small missteps can have big consequences. The discussion also explores practical techniques for installing packages, including securing queen cages, handling bees in cold weather, and the importance of returning to the hive to remove cages and correct spacing. Anne emphasizes how easily improper spacing can lead to burr comb, while Jim reflects on the many "small details" that only come with experience. As the conversation continues, they examine colony development timelines, including the natural population decline that occurs in the first few weeks after installation. They also compare packages and nucs, noting how packages start slowly but can catch up later in the season. Throughout the episode, Jim and Anne reinforce the value of mentorship, preparation, and patience—reminding listeners that while most installations go smoothly, success often comes down to understanding the fundamentals before getting started. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Mateo Kaiser joins Jeff and Becky to discuss how Bee Swarmed is changing the way beekeepers find and collect swarms. Built to connect the public with local beekeepers quickly, the platform helps remove the chaos that often surrounds swarm calls and replaces it with real-time alerts, cleaner communication, and better outcomes for both bees and beekeepers. The conversation begins with a timely Hive IQ question about swarm prevention and colony expansion. Jeff and Becky talk through the challenge of managing strong spring colonies, when to divide, and why waiting too long can cost both bees and honey production. That leads naturally into Mateo's work and the growing role Bee Swarmed plays in modern swarm management. Mateo explains how the system works, how beekeepers receive and claim swarm alerts, and how image recognition is helping filter out wasps and other mistaken reports. He also shares how Bee Swarmed has expanded beyond simple notifications into public education, library outreach, and large-scale data collection. Looking ahead, Mateo describes new tools under development, including local swarm timing predictions and swarm trap placement guidance based on environmental and historical data. For beekeepers hoping to catch locally adapted bees, reduce missed opportunities, and better understand swarm patterns, this episode offers a practical look at where beekeeping and technology now meet. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Bee Swarmed: https://beeswarmed.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Lanzan estrategia “Salud en el Mundial Social 2026”Coyoacán realizará Feria del Empleo Irán denuncia ataque de EU a buque como acto de “piratería”Más información en nuestro Podcast#grc

Package bee installation is one of the most common ways new beekeepers start a colony, and in this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew is joined by Anne Frey of Betterbee to share practical, experience-based approaches to getting packages established successfully. As spring arrives, Jim opens with a familiar situation—ordering packages after winter losses, only to find more colonies survived than expected. That leads into a broader discussion of why packages remain a popular entry point for beginners, offering a slower and more manageable buildup compared to nucs or splits. The conversation explores different installation techniques, including Jim's "slow release" method, where bees exit the package on their own rather than being shaken into the hive. Anne adds perspective from working with customers and emphasizes how critical proper feeding is during early spring, when cold conditions can quickly lead to starvation even when food is present. They also discuss queen cage management, including how long to wait before release and how to safely introduce the queen without risking loss. Along the way, they share real-world stories that highlight how small setup mistakes—especially around feeding and placement—can have significant consequences. Throughout the episode, Jim and Anne reinforce a key message: successful package bee installation depends on attention to detail, timing, and understanding bee behavior. This is part one of a two-part conversation, setting up a deeper dive into package management in the next episode. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Some Wisconsin farm workers are already active! Stephanie Hoff finds out how the honeybee population has mobilized from Brooke Nikkila-Sommerfeldt, WI State Apiarist and Apiary Program Coordinator. During mid-to-late February, nearly every migratory commercial bee colony in the U.S. is located in California for almond pollination. Beyond the risk of "bee spills" (truck accidents), moving bees long distances can lead to hive suffocation or overheating due to improper ventilation. Placing bees in single-crop environments, like almond groves, can lead to nutritional deficiencies because the bees lack a diverse range of pollen and nectar. Much like wood ticks carry Lyme disease to humans, Varroa mites can vector over 20 different viruses to honeybees, including the virulent deformed wing virus. Exposure to pesticides—common near agriculture or golf courses—can lower a bee's immune system, making them more susceptible to viruses and mites. While small flowers are great, "big blooms" from trees and shrubs are particularly beneficial for honeybees because they provide a large amount of resources in one location. Wisconsin weather woes continue with more rain in the forecast, and cooling temperatures. Stu Muck explains that there's even a chance of snow for the weekend in some areas of the state. Gardeners are just as frustrated as farmers about the weather delay's we're working through. Kiley Allan talks with Scott Trudell who staffs the Plant Desk for The Bruce Company. While spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils are hardy enough to survive fluctuating temperatures, deciduous shrubs (such as lilacs and crab apples) are more vulnerable. If temperatures drop below the mid-20s, these should be covered with blankets or row covers to prevent damage. Trudell says greenhouse inventory is arriving earlier than usual this year, featuring cold-tolerant flowers like pansies, sweet alyssum, and the increasingly popular hellebores. Be patient. That's the advice Dr. Shawn Conley, UW-Madison Extension Soybean Specialist is sharing with farmers. Conley tells Pam Jahnke that with the high input costs operators are facing this year, the last thing you'll want to do is "mud in" the crop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bee Science Short, Dr. Dewey Caron continues his series on integrated pest management (IPM) for Varroa mites, focusing on the critical step of selecting and applying the right tools at the right time. Dewey emphasizes a simple but essential message: have a plan. Effective Varroa control begins with understanding pest levels, assessing risk, and determining when intervention is necessary based on economic injury levels (EIL). From there, beekeepers must choose appropriate management tools to keep mite populations below damaging thresholds. The episode highlights the importance of early-season intervention. By reducing mite populations in late winter and early spring—particularly through oxalic acid treatments—beekeepers can lower the initial "inoculum" of mites and slow population growth throughout the season. This proactive approach helps flatten the mite population curve and reduces the likelihood of damaging fall peaks. Dewey reviews a range of control options, including mechanical methods such as drone brood removal and brood interruption, as well as chemical treatments. These include amitraz-based products, organic acids like formic and oxalic acid, and essential oil treatments. He also discusses emerging research on resistance, including amitraz resistance mechanisms and ongoing work to improve treatment effectiveness. Importantly, the episode underscores that Varroa damage is driven not just by mite numbers, but by their role in spreading viruses such as Deformed Wing Virus (DWV). This reinforces the need for consistent, integrated management throughout the season. This episode provides a science-based framework for building a Varroa management plan that supports healthier colonies and more successful beekeeping outcomes. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Caron Dewey and committee. 2026. Tools for Varroa Management, 9th edition. Honey Bee Health Coalition. Matías D., Maggi, et. al. (incl  Diana Sammataro.) 2017.  The susceptibility of Varroa destructor against oxalic acid: a study case.  Bull. Insectology 70 (1): 39-44, ISSN 1721-8861   Jernej Bubnič  et.al 2024. Integrated Pest Management Strategies to Control Varroa Mites and Their Effect on Viral Loads in Honey Bee Colonies. Insects 5;15(2):115. doi: 10.3390/insects15020115 Rinkevich, F. D., Moreno-Martí, S., Hernández‐Rodríguez, C. S. & González‐Cabrera, J.2023.  Confirmation of the Y215H mutation in the β2 ‐octopamine receptor in Varroa destructor is associated with contemporary cases of amitraz resistance in the United States. Pest Manag. Sci. 79, https://scijournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ps.7461 Rogan Tokach, Frank Rinkevich, et.a.. March 18, 2026. Evaluation of late-season Varroa destructor treatments and their impact on amitraz resistant mite populations. Scientific Reports., https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-44796-8 Bozkus, Mustafa, Carolyn Breece, Hannah Lucas, Nathalie A Steinhauer, and Ramesh R Sagili. 2025. Oxalic acid vaporization: effectiveness against Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata: Varroidae) and safety for Apis mellifera(Hymenoptera: Apidae). J.Ins. Sci. Vol 25, Issue 6, ieaf091, https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/ieaf091 https://www.ars.usda.gov/news-events/news/research-news/2026/finding-more-effective-treatments-in-the-fight-against-varroa-mites/ Yvonne Kosch, Christoph Mülling, Ilka U Emmerich. 2024. Resistance of Varroa destructor against Oxalic Acid Treatment—A Systematic Review, Vet Sci. Aug 26;11(9):393. doi: 10.3390/vetsci11090393 Matías D. Maggi,et. al. incl  Diana Sammataro. 2017.  The susceptibility of Varroa destructor against oxalic acid: a study case.  Bull. Insectology 70 (1): 39-44, ISSN 1721-8861   M. Maddaloni and D.W. Pascual. 2015. Isolation of oxalotrophic bacteria associated with Varroa destructormites.  Letters in Applied Microbiology, Vol 61 (5) : 411–417. https://doi.org/10.1111/lam.12486 ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Dr. Dewey Caron for a wide-ranging discussion on Varroa management, beekeeping education, and the evolving work of the Honey Bee Health Coalition. Dewey shares his journey from academic entomology to a "retirement" filled with teaching, research, and extension work across the Pacific Northwest. Now based in Oregon, he continues to educate beekeepers through presentations, writing, and his monthly Bee Science series on the podcast. A central focus of the episode is Dewey's work with the Honey Bee Health Coalition (HBHC), which brings together researchers, beekeepers, industry representatives, and regulators to provide science-based, unbiased guidance for honey bee health. Dewey explains how the Coalition's Tools for Varroa Management guide has evolved since its first release in 2014 and is now approaching its ninth edition. One of the most important updates discussed is a shift in recommended Varroa thresholds. Where beekeepers once tolerated higher mite levels, emerging research and field experience show that even low mite counts—around 1%—can present significant risk due to the viruses Varroa mites vector, including Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) and related pathogens. The conversation also highlights the Coalition's decision tool, which helps beekeepers navigate treatment options based on their management style, seasonal timing, and colony conditions. Dewey emphasizes that successful Varroa management is not about a single product, but about integrating monitoring, thresholds, and multiple control strategies. The episode also touches on Dewey's long-running Pacific Northwest colony loss survey, offering insights into overwintering success, beekeeper experience levels, and management practices across the region. This episode reinforces a key message: effective beekeeping today requires informed, proactive Varroa management grounded in science and adapted to changing conditions. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

SA producers urged to check their paddocks for signs of increased mouse activity, resistance detected to the two most effective chemicals used to treat varroa mite, and an SA company launches a a system to electrify the trailer system for heavy vehicles.

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew reflects on the contrast between light and darkness—both in beekeeping and in life. Recorded in the bee yard on a meaningful personal day, Jim shares a quiet, thoughtful conversation that begins with remembrance and transitions into observation. As spring unfolds and colonies build, he considers one of the enduring mysteries of honey bees: how they function so effectively within the complete darkness of the hive. Jim explores how bees move between two radically different environments—bright sunlight during foraging and total darkness inside the colony. Without relying on vision, bees navigate, communicate, care for brood, and construct comb using tactile senses, pheromones, and behavioral cues. He raises questions about how much we truly understand about these processes and what remains hidden from observation. The discussion expands to consider how beekeepers themselves affect this environment. Opening a hive introduces sudden light into a space where developing bees have never experienced it. Jim reflects on whether this disruption has consequences—drawing on past advice about protecting young larvae from direct sunlight—and wonders what other subtle effects might go unnoticed. Along the way, Jim connects these ideas to broader reflections on nature, including other creatures that live in darkness and even the unseen workings within the human body. The episode closes with thoughts on the beauty of spring, the resilience of bees, and the value of simply sitting in the apiary and observing. This episode is less about answers and more about curiosity—inviting listeners to consider what we don't yet understand about honey bees and the world they inhabit. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back Dr. Jeff Pettis and Carlos Perea of Terra Vera for an update on their evolving approach to honey bee health—one that goes beyond traditional varroa control. The discussion begins with a listener question on varroa management in top bar hives, highlighting the complexity of applying existing treatments across different hive configurations. From there, the conversation shifts to Terra Vera's oxidant-based technology, which mimics natural immune responses found in mammals and honey bees. Carlos explains how their chemistry, originally developed for plant health, showed effectiveness against mites and pathogens while remaining safe for bees at specific concentrations. Dr. Pettis shares results from cage studies and colony-level trials, demonstrating that the product can be applied directly to brood and adult bees without observed mortality under proper conditions. The conversation expands into two developing applications: Hive Health, aimed at improving colony resilience and reducing pathogen loads, and Hive Wash, designed to disinfect equipment and dead-outs by eliminating bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This introduces a broader concept of biosecurity—an area often overlooked in beekeeping but increasingly critical for managing disease transmission within and between apiaries. The episode also explores the role of viruses in colony collapse, the interaction between varroa and pathogen load, and early observations suggesting potential benefits in queen rearing. While distribution methods and application efficiency are still being refined, Terra Vera's work points toward a more integrated approach to colony health. This episode highlights the importance of moving beyond single-solution treatments and toward comprehensive hive management strategies that include nutrition, parasite control, and biosecurity. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Terra Vera Website: https://terravera.com Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew is joined by Anne Frey for a wide-ranging discussion on nucleus colonies, wax production, and the practical realities of working with smaller hives. The conversation begins with a focus on nucs as both a management tool and a learning platform. Anne suggests that beginners may benefit from maintaining not just two full colonies, but also a nuc—providing flexibility for making splits, building comb, and maintaining backup resources such as queens and brood. Jim expands on this idea, noting that nucs are often easier to handle, less intimidating, and allow beekeepers to observe bee biology more closely. From there, the discussion turns to wax production—one of the most fascinating and often overlooked aspects of honey bee behavior. Jim and Anne explore how bees convert incoming nectar or sugar into wax, highlighting the conditions that stimulate wax secretion, including strong nectar flows and colony crowding. They also discuss the commonly cited—but often misunderstood—relationship between honey consumption and wax production. A particularly engaging portion of the episode focuses on "whiting" (or "icing")—the appearance of fresh, white wax along frame edges and top bars. This visual cue signals active wax production and often indicates that additional space or supers are needed. Throughout the episode, Jim and Anne reflect on the balance between scientific understanding and practical experience. While research provides valuable insights, much of beekeeping knowledge still comes from observation, experimentation, and time in the bee yard. This episode captures the curiosity and hands-on learning that define beekeeping, especially when working with nucs and watching bees build comb in real time. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back Dr. Chip Taylor and Dr. Gard Otis for a deep dive into Africanized honey bee swarming behavior—and what it reveals about honey bee biology. The conversation begins with a listener question on comb rotation and foundation use, offering practical spring management tips for replacing old brood frames and encouraging new comb building. From there, the discussion shifts to swarming—one of the most important reproductive behaviors in honey bees. Drawing on decades of research in South and Central America, Chip and Gard describe how Africanized honey bees differ from European bees in their responsiveness to environmental conditions. African bees react quickly to incoming resources, rapidly expanding brood production and initiating swarming cycles. In contrast to European bees, which often wait for sustained resource availability, Africanized colonies can swarm repeatedly in short intervals, sometimes producing multiple afterswarms in a matter of days. The episode explores key concepts such as the "effective brood nest," pheromone distribution, and how crowding within the colony triggers queen production and swarm events. Chip and Gard also share firsthand field observations—from tracking swarm cycles in French Guiana to witnessing colonies produce multiple swarms in rapid succession. The discussion expands to include how Africanized bees spread across the Americas, the role of absconding behavior, and how their reproductive strategy contributed to rapid geographic expansion. The episode closes with a fascinating origin story behind swarm lures, including the discovery of lemongrass-based attractants still used today. This episode blends practical beekeeping insight with scientific perspective, offering listeners a clearer understanding of swarming behavior and how different honey bee populations respond to their environment. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Gard's Latest Research, "Where Do Honey Bees Mate": https://www.researchgate.net/publication/399733448_Where_do_honey_bees_Apis_mellifera_mate  Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew takes listeners into the bee yard for what he calls a "bee scene investigation"—a hands-on look at two colonies that failed over winter and what can (and cannot) be learned from their remains. What begins as a straightforward inspection quickly becomes something more reflective. Jim encounters unusual signs, including a colony where the bees died not in a typical cluster—an observation that raises more questions than answers. While signs like dysentery, lack of stores, and robbing activity provide some clues, the exact cause remains uncertain. Jim walks through his thought process in real time, considering possibilities such as queen failure, Varroa impact, or simple colony decline. Importantly, he highlights a reality all beekeepers face: sometimes even experienced beekeepers cannot definitively diagnose a colony loss. The episode also explores the role of robbing in the yard, both as a cleanup mechanism and as a source of agitation among colonies. Jim reflects on management decisions—some intentional, others simply practical—including allowing bees to clean out dead equipment and reducing colony numbers due to local conditions. This Plain Talk episode captures the uncertainty, curiosity, and ongoing learning that define beekeeping—especially when things don't go as expected. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman explore a topic that can divide beekeepers, almost immediately: spotted lanternfly honey. Today's conversation centers on spotted lanternflies, an invasive pest spreading across the eastern United States. Guests Dr. Robin Underwood (Penn State Extension) and Dr. Ferhat Ozturk bring both field experience and research insight to the discussion. Robin shares firsthand observations from Pennsylvania, where the insect first established, while Ferhat connects the honey produced from lanternfly honeydew to broader research on honey composition and bioactive properties. Together, they unpack what spotted lanternfly honey actually is, how bees collect it, how it tastes, and why it has generated both excitement and skepticism. The discussion remains grounded—this is not a silver bullet product—but rather a unique honey source emerging from an ecological challenge. For beekeepers, the key takeaway is perspective. Even in the presence of invasive species, honey bees adapt, forage, and sometimes create new opportunities. Understanding those dynamics helps beekeepers make informed decisions rather than react to headlines. This episode offers a balanced look at a rapidly evolving topic, blending science, field observations, and practical beekeeping considerations. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Spotted Lanternfly Distribution Map: https://cals.cornell.edu/integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/whats-bugging-you/spotted-lanternfly/spotted-lanternfly-reported-distribution-map Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

The Country Hour broadcasts live from the South East Field Days at Lucindale, an overview of the potential impact of the Middle East conflict on the grains industry, and a new program upskilling health services to provide skin checks for farmers and rural people.

Varroa mites are the most destructive parasite affecting honey bee colonies worldwide. In this Bee Science Short, Dr. Dewey Caron explains how Varroa destructor reproduces, spreads within colonies, and why understanding the mite's biology is essential for modern beekeeping. Female Varroa mites enter brood cells shortly before they are capped and reproduce alongside the developing bee. Inside the sealed cell, mites feed on the developing bee and produce offspring that emerge with the young adult bee. Because the mite's reproductive cycle is closely tied to brood production, populations can increase rapidly during the active season. Beyond direct feeding damage, Varroa mites also spread viruses that weaken colonies and shorten the lifespan of worker bees. Dewey explains why unchecked mite populations can quickly overwhelm a colony if they are not monitored and managed. For beekeepers, the key is awareness. Regular monitoring allows beekeepers to track mite levels and respond before populations reach damaging levels. Understanding the biology of Varroa helps beekeepers make informed decisions about management strategies and colony health. This episode is part of the Bee Science with Dewey series, where Dr. Caron shares practical explanations of honey bee biology to help beekeepers better understand what is happening inside their colonies. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Lundin, Ola. Et. al. 2021. Integrated pest and pollinator management – expanding the concept. Frontiers Ecol & Environ. https://doi.org/10.1002/fee.2325 Caron, Dewey and review committee. Tools for Varroa Management. Honey Bee Health Coalition https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/  (you want to get the 9th edition (available soon) Bruckner, Selina, et.al. 2025. Let's not sugar coat it: the powdered sugar shake is Published online: https://doi.org/10.1080/00218839.2025.2550855 Caron, D.M. and L. J. Connor. 2025. Honey bee Biology and Beekeeping. Wicwas Press.  ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode of Bee Science with Dewey, Dewey Caron introduces the concept of a colony necropsy—the careful reading of hive debris to understand what is happening inside a honey bee colony without opening the hive. By examining wax particles, pollen fragments, brood remains, mite debris, and other material on the hive floor, beekeepers can diagnose colony health, seasonal progress, and potential stressors with minimal disturbance. Dewey explains how debris patterns change through the year, what normal versus concerning signs look like, and how this simple observational practice can guide smarter management decisions. From overwinter survival clues to early warning signals of brood disease or Varroa pressure, colony necropsy offers a low-cost, low-impact tool available to every beekeeper. This episode reinforces a central theme of the series: good beekeeping begins with careful observation. By learning to interpret what bees leave behind, beekeepers gain insight that supports healthier colonies and more confident seasonal management. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Caron, D.M. 2018 Dead Colony Forensics. Bee Culture Apiary Inspectors of America: https://apiaryinspectors.org/US-beekeeping-survey Pacific Northwest Honey Bee Survey: https://pnwhoneybeesurvey.com Underwood, R and D. M. van Englesdorf. 2007. Colony Collapse Disorder: Have We Seen This Before? American Bee Journal. Beekeeping Today Podcast, Episode 372 with Ray Baxter, "Bottom Up Beekeeping":  https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/372-bottom-up-beekeeping ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.   Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Bee Season in Full Swing: The February 18 edition of the AgNet News Hour focused on one of the most critical — and often overlooked — inputs in California agriculture: bees. With almond bloom underway across the Central Valley and storms rolling through the state, hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill dedicated much of the program to pollination, hive health, and why timing is everything during this narrow three- to four-week window. Papagni opened the show reflecting on recent rainstorms and the importance of moisture heading into peak bloom. While rain is welcome for reservoirs and soil profiles, it complicates pollination logistics. Bees don't fly in heavy rain, cold temperatures, or high winds, and muddy orchards can delay hive placement. With bloom percentages already climbing, growers without secured hives could find themselves in a tight spot. The episode featured an in-depth interview with Daniel Taran, Field Marketing Manager for BeeHero, who explained how technology is changing the pollination game. Traditionally, growers rely on a standard rate of two hives per acre. BeeHero takes a more data-driven approach, using in-hive sensors to measure colony strength and frame counts before deployment. That transparency gives growers confidence they're receiving strong, active colonies — not underperforming boxes. Taran noted that nearly every commercial beehive in the country eventually makes its way to California for almond pollination. Given the scale of the industry, even minor colony losses can tighten supply. Last year's elevated losses due to Varroa mite resistance highlighted how fragile the system can be. While conditions appear improved this season, demand remains extremely high, and theft of beehives — sometimes worth hundreds of dollars each — continues to be an issue across rural counties. The hosts also emphasized the biological side of the story. Bees are responsible for pollinating roughly one-third of the food humans consume. Worker bees live about 30 to 40 days, while queens can live several years. During bloom, bees work quickly and methodically, foraging from the closest flowers and returning repeatedly to their hive. With only one shot at pollination each season, successful bloom directly determines final yields. Beyond bees, the program also featured interviews from World Ag Expo, including Alexandra Duarte's California Senate campaign update and agronomic insights from AgroLiquid and Valent on post-rain nutrition and pest management. But pollination remained the central theme: without bees, there is no almond crop. As Papagni put it, water, labor, freight, and regulations matter — but without healthy hives in the orchard right now, nothing else counts.

In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff and Becky welcome Scottish beekeeper and author Ray Baxter to explore an often-overlooked source of insight inside the hive—the debris on the bottom board. Ray explains how careful observation of wax flakes, pollen, Varroa fragments, chalkbrood remains, and other materials can reveal colony health, brood cycles, forage history, and stress factors without opening the hive. Drawing on years of microscopy and time-series sampling, Ray shares how studying debris transformed his own beekeeping and inspired his book Bottom-Up Beekeeping. What began as a classroom curiosity with students evolved into long-term research that now tracks seasonal colony patterns and informs more precise hive interventions, including targeted Varroa treatments and identifying brood breaks. The conversation also highlights practical steps any beekeeper can take—such as photographing debris regularly, cleaning inspection boards consistently, and using simple tools like a smartphone or microscope to deepen understanding of colony biology. Ray emphasizes that debris analysis doesn't replace inspections but adds another valuable layer of information to guide better decisions and reduce unnecessary disturbance to the bees. Whether you're a new beekeeper curious about IPM boards or an experienced beekeeper seeking deeper biological insight, this discussion opens a new perspective on what the hive floor can teach us about colony survival, nutrition, and seasonal change. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Ray's Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4rdp0nH Ray's Book at Northern Bee Books:  https://www.northernbeebooks.co.uk/en-us/products/bottom-up-beekeeping-baxter Ray's Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/bottomupbeekeeping Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC     ______________ Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode!  As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com. Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry. _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com Thank you for listening!  Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Beekeeping today looks very different than it did just a few decades ago, largely because of the steady arrival of invasive pests and pathogens. In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew welcomes Anne Frey for a thoughtful, experience-based discussion on how beekeepers have responded to these challenges over time. Jim and Anne reflect on the early days of tracheal mites, the arrival of Varroa, and the emergency treatments that once dominated management strategies. They discuss how research, regulation, and practical experience gradually replaced panic-driven responses, leading to more stable—though still imperfect—approaches to colony health. The conversation also revisits Colony Collapse Disorder, how public understanding diverged from beekeeper reality, and what long-term data revealed about recurring cycles of loss. Looking forward, Jim and Anne turn their attention to emerging threats such as Tropilaelaps mites and the yellow-legged hornet, emphasizing the role of human movement in spreading invasive species. While the challenges are real and ongoing, they agree that today's beekeepers are better equipped than ever to adapt, monitor, and respond. This episode offers perspective, historical context, and plain talk for anyone trying to understand how modern beekeeping arrived where it is—and why adaptability remains essential. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

 This week, we talk with Ryan Lieuallen of Sweet Bee Honey Company in Milton-Freewater, Oregon. Ryan shares insights into the significant challenges and changes within the beekeeping industry, including high winter mortality rates and the potential economic impacts of the Tropi mite infestation. We discuss the emergence of new Varroa treatments and innovative strategies for creating sustainable bee pastures for bees. Explore Ryan's dedication to maintaining a five-generation beekeeping heritage while adapting to future challenges in beekeeping and sustainable agriculture. Link to Sweet Bee Honey Company and how to donate to the Bee Foundation:   https://www.sweetbeehoneyco.com