Worldwide Beekeeping

Beekeeping => Pests and Diseases => Topic started by: Alklar20 on July 10, 2021, 09:39:16 am

Title: How Much Humidity is Too Much for Sugar Roll Mite Checks?
Post by: Alklar20 on July 10, 2021, 09:39:16 am

Hello. I was considering using the sugar roll method for doing mite checks on my beehives, but I read online that high humidity could skew the results of the sugar roll method. I live in Washington, which has a very moist climate, so I'm thinking about possibly doing the alcohol wash instead. But before I do that, I wanted to get someone's opinion on how much humidity is too much for the sugar roll method.

Title: Re: How Much Humidity is Too Much for Sugar Roll Mite Checks?
Post by: Bakersdozen on July 10, 2021, 04:39:28 pm

I have never heard of humidity being a factor when doing a sugar roll mite check.  I suppose it is possible.  I know that if I am checking a number of hives, one right after the other, the residual sugar can start to clump a little and stick to the sides of my jar.  I always attributed that to the heat of the bees and respiration.  Switching out a fresh jar would solve that problem.

Title: Re: How Much Humidity is Too Much for Sugar Roll Mite Checks?
Post by: Bakersdozen on July 11, 2021, 07:45:03 am

Alklar20 I did find this article that refers to mite testing, sugar roll tests, and high humidity.  https://backyardbeekeeping.iamcountryside.com/health-pests/catch-and-release-powdered-sugar-roll-varroa-mite-test/ (https://backyardbeekeeping.iamcountryside.com/health-pests/catch-and-release-powdered-sugar-roll-varroa-mite-test/)
I heard a recommendation this spring from a well respected speaker.  Instead of testing nurse bees on a brood frame, test the bees on the frame next to the brood.  You will get an accurate count and won't be disturbing any eggs and young larvae.