There are multiple key contributors that are associated with high annual colony losses. Most of them are interconnected and together form a group known as the “Four P’s” – pathogens, parasites, poor nutrition, pesticides.
As a beekeeper it is very important to be aware of these “ Four P’s” threats and follow constant routines to keep them under control:
Pathogens
Viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens are the ones which bees get in contact with and can have devastated impacts on colony survival. Some of them are contagious, while others can be spread by the Varroa mite.
Parasites
The parasitic mite, Varroa, is the biggest destructor of bee colonies.The mite was introduced from Asia, and the Western honey bee is very vulnerable to this pest. Left unchecked, this mite will kill most honey bee colonies. That is why beekeepers should control the mite population and the timing is crucial. For the honey bees to survive overwintering, controlling mites in the fall is essential.
Poor Nutrition
Properly fed, bees are more likely to be healthy. Intensified agricultural chemicals lead to reducing food resources for bees, ultimately making them less resistant to pesticides and diseases.
Pesticides
These chemicals are used all over the world by beekeepers to treat Varroa Mites and farmers to manage unwanted insects.Varroacide, Fungicide, Herbicide, Insecticide have lethal effects on bees’ health.
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Happy beekeeping!
