Are you a bit tentative on how to assess for mites? The University of Minnesota has developed a wonderful Varroa Mite Testing kit to use the sugar shake method. This measures a proportion of mites within the colony, so it is much more specific than the sticky board test- but not as intimidating for bee-ginners as the alcohol wash. For total ease, you can buy a complete kit at Mann lake or one of the other links as seen below- OR it is just as easy to make your own. No matter what method you chose- we strongly encourage you to assess and treat for mites this Spring.
