Varroa in 5 Minutes (UK): a quick-start guide
Varroa destructor is the most significant parasite affecting honey bees in the UK. You can’t eliminate it completely, but you can keep colonies healthy by following a simple, evidence-based routine.
The 5-minute varroa checklist
- Assume varroa is present in every colony.
- Monitor before you treat. Use a method you can repeat consistently: Monitoring Methods.
- Use the season to guide decisions, not guesswork.
- Reduce pressure year-round using IPM methods.
- Treat only when needed, using approved products and correct timing: Chemical Treatments + Treatment Calendar (UK).
Fast warning signs (check mites sooner)
These are prompts to monitor, not diagnoses:
- Late-season colony decline despite stores and a laying queen
- Deformed wings on emerging bees
- Patchy or failing brood pattern
- Robbing, drifting, or nearby colony collapse
- New swarms or bought-in bees with unknown history
Monitoring: what actually matters
You don’t need every method — you need one you trust and repeat. Monitoring tells you whether mites are rising and whether a treatment worked.
See: Monitoring Methods.
Seasonal timing (UK): why late summer matters
In the UK, late summer and early autumn are critical because this is when winter bees are being raised. High mite levels at this point can cause colonies to fail months later.
Common mistakes
- Treating without monitoring
- Ignoring brood levels and temperature limits
- Under-dosing or stopping treatments early
- Relying on one method year after year
- Keeping no records
PPE and safe handling matter: PPE for Treatments.
Quick FAQ
Do I have varroa if I can’t see mites?
Yes. Most colonies carry varroa even when mites aren’t visible. Monitoring is the only reliable way to know.
Can I rely on non-chemical methods alone?
IPM methods reduce pressure, but many colonies still require treatments at certain times. Monitoring tells you when.
Where do I go next?
Use the Varroa Management hub for full guidance, then drill down into monitoring, treatments and seasonal planning as needed.