Varroa Monitoring Methods (UK) – How to Measure Mite Levels
Monitoring varroa is the foundation of sensible varroa management. It tells you whether your mite level is low, rising, or already high enough to threaten the colony.
This page explains the main monitoring options used by UK beekeepers and how to use them without turning beekeeping into a science project.
Why monitoring matters
In the UK, most colonies will have some varroa. Monitoring answers the real question: how many mites are there right now, and is the level rising or falling?
Monitoring helps you:
- Decide if treatment is needed (rather than treating “just in case”).
- Pick the best timing (especially late summer when winter bees are raised).
- Check whether a treatment worked, and record results for next year.
Common monitoring methods used in the UK
Most beekeepers choose one or two methods and use them consistently. The table below compares the main options.
| Method | What it measures | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sticky board (mite drop) | Natural mite fall over a set period | Non-invasive; useful before/after treatment | Varies with brood level and colony behaviour |
| Sugar roll | Approx. % mites on adult bees | Non-lethal; good repeatable trend data | Needs careful technique and a bee sample |
| Alcohol wash | % mites on adult bees | Very reliable estimate | Bee sample is sacrificed |
| Drone brood uncapping | Mites reproducing in drone cells | Quick “is it bad?” check in spring/summer | Not a numeric colony-wide count |
| Visual checks | Obvious mites / symptoms | Fast during inspections | Can miss serious infestations |
How to build a simple monitoring routine
A practical routine for UK hobby beekeepers looks like this:
- Spring: quick checks (drone brood uncapping and/or sticky board) to spot early spikes.
- Summer: keep an eye on trends without disrupting supers (choose methods that suit your setup).
- Late summer / early autumn: do a proper count (sugar roll or alcohol wash) before and after your main treatment window.
- Winter (where appropriate): note broodless periods and link records to your winter plan.
Interpreting results without overthinking it
Don’t get stuck chasing perfect numbers. Focus on:
- Trend: are mite levels rising quickly?
- Season: late summer matters most for protecting winter bees.
- Brood: high brood can “hide” mites in capped cells, so results need context.
- Effectiveness: did the count drop after treatment?
If results suggest a heavy infestation, use the treatment planning pages to choose an approach that fits your conditions: chemical treatments, non-chemical IPM and PPE & safety.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the most accurate way to measure varroa?
Alcohol washes generally give a strong estimate of mites on adult bees, while sugar rolls are a good non-lethal alternative for trend monitoring. Choose a method you can do consistently and safely. - How often should I monitor varroa in the UK?
Several times per season is sensible, with extra focus in late summer/early autumn. Monitor before and after treatments so you know what actually worked. - Are sticky boards enough on their own?
They are useful for trend and treatment checks, but results vary with brood and colony conditions. Many beekeepers pair a drop count with a sugar roll or alcohol wash at key points. - Can I rely on visual checks for mites?
No. Visible mites or deformed wings often mean levels are already high. Visual checks are helpful, but they’re not a substitute for a monitoring method. - Do thresholds stay the same all year?
No. Threshold guidance varies by season and local advice. Use trend + season + brood context, and check current UK guidance. - Should I record monitoring results?
Yes. Recording method, date and result helps you spot patterns and supports better decisions next year, especially alongside veterinary medicine records when treatments are used.