Page 1 of 1
November 2016 Varroa Drop Counts
Posted: November 3rd, 2016, 2:30 pm
by Allen Dick
12:35 Thursday Nov 3, 2016 Photos at
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/2016 ... Nov3rd2016
How many varroa can you see? Be sure to zoom right in. The shots are presented in high resolution.
Re: November 2016 Varroa Drop Counts
Posted: November 4th, 2016, 7:35 am
by Allen Dick
If you got zero on both boards, we are in agreement.
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/2016 ... 121818.jpg
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/2016 ... 121727.jpg
Seeing as the photos were taken after three hours (1/8 day), anything more than one mite would suggest we will be seeing a lot of mites over a full day. I was expecting to see at least one mite, but am pleased I did not.
These hives received one treatment with one strip of Apistan and one drizzle with oxalic thios spring and no further management.
I see that I could get a better shot if a tilt the boards enough that the light hits more directly, rather that raking from one side as in these shots.
Nonetheless, these shots taken with my cellphone seem to be an excellent way to count the mites on drop boards. If there is any doubt, the shots of the floors from two days ago do have varroa that is quite visible.
Example:
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/2016 ... 150857.jpg
Re: November 2016 Varroa Drop Counts
Posted: November 6th, 2016, 12:41 pm
by Allen Dick
I see the treatments are working. Here are the boards with the drops from roughly 24 to 48 hours after the fumigation.
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/2016 ... 121248.jpg
http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/2016 ... 121204.jpg
I did not count, but feel free.
Re: November 2016 Varroa Drop Counts
Posted: December 8th, 2016, 10:34 pm
by BDT123
Allen, you have totally convinced me that OA sublimation is the missing link in my Varroa IPM system. I have read multiple other sources, but your counts were the kicker. I have a Varrox on order from BeeMaid.
Randy Oliver also seems to be on-board with Oxalic vaporization. Do you ever follow his articles?
Not dissing you at all, I totally love this site and forum. I really like your citizen science, wonderful gift to us all.
Thank you
Re: November 2016 Varroa Drop Counts
Posted: December 9th, 2016, 8:11 am
by Allen Dick
No worries. Randy is a pal of mine. In fact, at one time we discussed having me manage his site. I decided it's too much work and I'm glad I did not take the job on.
Randy in my mind is one of the best sources of honest, tested ideas.
Re: November 2016 Varroa Drop Counts
Posted: December 9th, 2016, 10:15 pm
by BDT123
Thank you Allen.
It's nice to get affirmation on a source that seems so trustworthy.
Best to you
BDT
