[Ruth Askren]

This is surprising and disappointing, but considering the evidence it seems you have indeed pinpointed a new predator we need to be on the lookout for. I have only ever seen a solo hive beetle here or there, much like moths… Questions:
If we make sure the bees are inhabiting and building in all parts of their hives, do you think that will be enough to ward it off at this time? I already have that policy to keep the moths away. And, do the shb’s build up in spring along side the bees, or are they on some other schedule?
Ruth

[Ruth Askren]

Hi Ceebs, I wouldn’t take any off at this point, until the spring. While in the dearth, it’s going to get them through the time of least resources out there. Then, we may have a “fall flow”, when things cool off a bit and we get some blooming natives. But if we have any winter rains and cold, they will hit after that and that’s when the girls are going to need their stores! So I would wait until late February or March, when your forage will be awesome, and the workers can put back right away any surplus that’s taken.
Ruth

[Ruth Askren]

Very exciting to have a new forum to discuss the important issues in beekeeping! I wonder how long it will take now, for all the elementary schools that have organic gardens, to also put a beehive or two on their roofs!?

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