Author: Andy Boylan

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Season report in VIC, Australia

SEASON REPORT OCTOBER 2025

Weather continues to be very windy and cool. Fortunately, some light rainfall has occurred. Just as many of the Canola crops were past their peak flowering, they were desperate for moisture. Faba Bean crops are still flowering and the perfume of the nectar is more pronounced this year. It seems according to the scale hives that the bees are losing weight, and I guess that the Faba Beans crops are too dry. Beekeeping can be a tricky business especially when you expect the bees to be doing well.

Rainfall in the Western District is half of a normal season and many farmers dams are very low.

Capeweed is definitely doing well, and the bees have plenty of yellow nectar in the frames. Capeweed is abundant after a dry autumn as the bare patches in the pastures allow the Capeweed to germinate.

Swarming is rampant at present and the weather has not helped. The bees have been breeding large amounts of brood resulting in very strong hives. Many of the swarms have been close to the ground, I think due to the strong winds. If you see the queen, I suggest it is best not to try and mark her until she commences laying brood. Queens that have been flying are very agile and slippery to catch and prone to flying.

Taking away a “split” of bees is the best way to stop swarming. Giving the bees foundation frames keeps them busy and makes room for the queen to continue laying. As the split grows with a new queen it can be sold, or united onto your weakest hives just before summer to greatly increase your honey production.

Last autumn was not good for bees in many areas and I have been told of hives that have died. I know starvation has been a very big problem. Colonies that were small in strength have struggled to survive. Many autumn queens I expect will be superseded due to the shortage of quality drones. A commercial beekeeper contacted me enquiring about purchasing Carniolan queens. The Italian queens he has been buying for northern states do not make honey during tough times as they breed to much and eat their stores.

Red Gum appears to be the next crop of honey. Hopefully everything goes to plan. When I was A boy my father had a very large Red Gum honey flow during a drought year. He ran out of tins to store the honey and Mum was horrified when he suggested filling the bath with honey. He must have found something else to store the honey.

News from the Almond farms. More plantings of new orchards is occurring which is amazing considering the shortage of bees this year. 12,000 beehives have been purchased by a South Australian Almond farm from Western Australia for their own pollination. It will be interesting to see how successful they are at keeping the bees alive. Prices paid for almond pollination are rumored to increase significantly next year. Despite beehive shortages a crop of almonds has been set. Unfortunately, some hives tested for Varroa at the Almonds had 140 mites per wash. These hives would certainly distributed varroa to other beekeepers hives.

Seed Conola pollination in the NSW Riverina has been reduced this season due to lack of irrigation water. Next season may not have any water to grow the crops.

When shifting bee hives it is best to fill up your vehicle prior to the trip. If the bees leak out while filling your vehicle the bees left behind become a problem to the general public. Some service stations in NSW had to close after large transports left swarms of bees behind.

So, far I have not found any Varroa mites in my hives. But I have been informed that a large load of bees are located at Barwon Downs on a late flowering Canola crop. It is movement of bees that will bring us the Varroa. I asked my friend in NSW if any race of bees was preforming better with the Varroa. No, it affects them all the same so far.

I see many people quoting varroa resistant bees. The best scientist beekeepers say it will take many years before we find bees with that ability.

The new Varroa treatment from USA has been approved in America and is a sugar-based DNA treatment that only targets the DNA of the Varroa. It stops the mother Varroa mite from being able to breed. It will not have residues or contaminate the combs.

John Edmonds12/10/2025

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How to Tell the Difference: Queen Bee vs. Drone 🐝

Understanding the differences between queen bees and drones is essential for managing your hive—especially for beginner beekeepers. Here’s a clear guide to identifying these two distinct members of your colony:

🏆 The Queen Bee

  • Size & Shape: Long, tapered abdomen that extends well beyond her wings—much more elongated than drones or workers (en.wikipedia.org, dummies.com).
  • Legs: Noticeably long and often lighter-colored, lacking pollen baskets (motherearthnews.com).
  • Behavior & Role:
    • Lays up to 1,500 eggs per day during peak season (en.wikipedia.org).
    • Surrounded constantly by worker bees tending to her needs.
    • Possesses a stinger but rarely uses it unless threatened.
  • Special Markings:

♂ The Drone

  • Size & Shape: Thick, rounded abdomen. Compared to the queen’s sleek form, drones appear “barrel-chested” (dummies.com).
  • Eyes: Massive compound eyes nearly meet at the top of their head—ideal for spotting the queen during mating flights (beeprofessor.com).
  • Behavior & Role:
  • Appearance: Fatter than workers, with no stinger, no wax glands, and no foraging features (dummies.com).

🔍 Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureQueenDrone
AbdomenLong, tapered, extends past wingsShorter, rounded “barrel” shape
EyesModerate size, not touchingVery large, almost meeting top of head
Stinger?Yes, but used rarelyNo stinger
Pollen Baskets?NoNo
LegsLong and slenderShorter and thicker
Primary RoleEgg layer and colony reproducerMate with virgin queen

🧠 Why It Matters

  • Queen Identification:
    • Spotting the queen helps assess colony health and ensures brood production.
    • Look for her elongated abdomen among worker clusters.
  • Drone Recognition:
    • Indicates mating or potential swarming conditions—useful for swarm prevention.
    • Drones appear when the colony is investing in reproduction or preparing for a new queen.

🧑‍🎓 Tips from Beekeepers

On r/Beekeeping, one user noted:

“You can tell the queens apart by the legs and long abdomen. Drones … by the fat stubby abdomens and eyes.” (dummies.com, thebfarm.com, beeprofessor.com, reddit.com)

✅ Final Takeaway

To accurately tell a queen from a drone:

  1. Check the abdomen: Long and sleek? That’s your queen. Short and stout? Probably a drone.
  2. Look at the eyes: Huge, meeting the head midline—drone.
  3. Assess the role: If it’s laying eggs, it’s definitely the queen (with a gentle sting).

With practice, you’ll quickly spot these key differences in the hive. Let me know if you’d like a similar guide comparing queen vs. worker!

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Recognizing a Swarm

How to Recognize as It’s Emerging and Early Warning Signs

What a Real Swarm Looks Like (Not Just Busy Bees)

Even experienced beekeepers can sometimes misinterpret what they see in videos or photos. A true swarm has several distinctive features:

  • A dense cluster of bees hanging together—usually on a tree branch, fence, or hive top—while the existing hive shuts down activity.
  • After leaving the hive, the swarm typically clusters nearby, a few meters away, as scout bees search for a new home.
  • During this temporary stop, the cluster often stays less than three days before relocating .
  • The bees in a swarm are docile—they lack brood and won’t defend an empty hive.

Common Mistakes: What Beginners Often Mislabel as Swarms

  • Orientation flights: Groups of bees performing figure‑8 patterns near the hive entrance— they’re merely learning their home’s layout.
  • Bearding: Large clusters of bees on the hive’s exterior usually triggered by heat or crowding—not swarming.
  • Busy traffic in front of the hive? That’s just a bustling colony—not a swarm.

How to Know Your Hive Is Preparing to Swarm

Watch for these tell‑tale signs before bees actually leave:

  1. High bee population: A crowded hive with fully drawn combs and a dense brood nest.
  2. Backfilling brood nest with nectar: Indicates limited space and swarming intent.
  3. Cellular alerts:
    • Queen cups (unfinished cells): Practice runs—harmless.
    • Swarm‑type queen cells (large, peanut‑shaped, edge of frames, often grouped): strong signal of pending swarm.
  4. High drone presence: Abundant drone brood means the colony is preparing for new queen mating flights.
  5. Consistent bearding in cool to mild weather: May signal congestion and swarm planning—especially possible when adding supers alone may not relieve pressure.

Why This Matters

  • Pre‑emptive action: Catching swarm signals early (queen cells, overcrowding) allows for preventative measures—splits, checkerboarding, or extra space—before the bees fly .
  • Accurate reporting: Knowing the difference between a swarm and normal activity helps avoid unnecessary alarms and misinformation on social media.
  • Bee welfare: Swarms that aren’t managed can leave hives queenless and vulnerable, reducing colony health and productivity.

What to Do If You See a Swarm or Pre‑Swarm Cue

  • Observe, don’t panic. A true swarm is calm and won’t sting unless provoked.
  • Capture or guide: If it’s a full swarm cluster, contact a seasoned beekeeper or local club to relocate it.
  • Inspect hive: If queen cells or congestion appear, act—split the hive, add drawn frames, or use checkerboarding techniques.
  • Document correctly: Take clear photos showing a cluster of bees in a single mass, not bees flying or crawling near the hive.

Conclusion

Spotting the difference between a true swarm and everyday hive activity—with a cluster of bees in transit—is key. Understanding the early warning signs, akin to reading nature’s signals, empowers beekeepers to take action before losing half their bees. With accurate recognition, beginners can avoid mislabeling harmless behavior as a swarm—preventing confusion and improving hive management across the community.

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California’s Hive Registration Rule

How BeeWhere Simplifies Compliance

Beekeeping is more than a hobby—it’s a crucial part of California’s agricultural success. Honey bees play a vital role in pollinating crops, but their well-being faces increasing threats. California’s hive registration rule is a critical step in safeguarding bees and the beekeeping industry. Enter BeeWhere, a state-backed program that makes compliance easier for everyone.

The Purpose Behind Hive Registration

California’s hive registration law isn’t just a bureaucratic hurdle; it’s a lifeline for bees. The law requires every beekeeper to register their hives with the local County Agricultural Commissioner within 30 days of establishing an apiary (California Food and Agricultural Code §29040). Registration must be renewed annually to ensure accurate hive location data.

This isn’t about control—it’s about protection. Knowing where hives are located helps coordinate efforts to prevent pesticide exposure and manage pollination schedules (BeeWhere Program Overview). It’s a system designed with both bees and beekeepers in mind.

What Is BeeWhere?

BeeWhere is California’s answer to simplifying hive registration. It’s a user-friendly program that leverages modern technology to keep track of hive locations while ensuring privacy and security for beekeepers (BeeWhere FAQ).

At its core, BeeWhere connects beekeepers, farmers, and pesticide applicators. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone involved in agriculture can work together to protect pollinators.

How BeeWhere Works

  1. Hive Registration: Beekeepers can log into BeeWhere and register their hives, including their exact locations. This data feeds into a secure state database (California Agricultural Commissioners).
  2. Real-Time Mapping: The program uses maps to display hive locations. This ensures that pesticide applicators can see where hives are and adjust their methods accordingly (BeeWhere Mapping Tools).
  3. Alerts and Notifications: Beekeepers receive notifications about activities, such as pesticide applications, that could affect their hives. This gives them time to take precautions (BeeWhere Program Overview).
  4. Mobile Accessibility: BeeWhere works on smartphones, making it easy for beekeepers to update hive locations and receive alerts from anywhere (BeeWhere Mobile Features).

How Does the Lack of Internet Service Affect BeeWhere?

While BeeWhere is a powerful tool, its reliance on internet access can pose challenges for beekeepers in areas with poor connectivity. Here’s how a lack of internet service can affect its functionality:

  • Hive Registration Delays: Beekeepers without internet access may face difficulties registering their hives promptly, potentially leading to non-compliance (Shasta County Agriculture Department).
  • Inability to Update Locations: Without an internet connection, hive locations cannot be updated in real time, resulting in outdated data.
  • Missed Notifications: Beekeepers may not receive alerts about pesticide applications or other activities near their hives, increasing the risk to pollinators.
  • Limited Mobile Features: BeeWhere’s mobile tools, which allow users to manage hives on the go, require an internet connection to function effectively.

To address these challenges, beekeepers can:

  • Register hives manually by contacting their local County Agricultural Commissioner.
  • Use public internet services at libraries or community centers to access BeeWhere.
  • Invest in mobile hotspots or collaborate with beekeeping associations for assistance.

Why Do Out-of-State Beekeepers Need to Register?

Out-of-state beekeepers who bring their hives into California for pollination season are also required to register their hives within 30 days of arrival (California Food and Agricultural Code §29042). This registration serves several purposes:

  • Pollinator Protection: Accurate hive location data helps prevent pesticide exposure, safeguarding bee health.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Registration ensures adherence to California’s beekeeping laws, avoiding potential penalties.
  • Agricultural Coordination: Knowing hive locations facilitates effective collaboration between beekeepers and farmers during critical pollination periods.

Out-of-state beekeepers must also pay the annual $10 registration fee, which applies regardless of the number of hives (Western Growers).

Addressing Concerns About Pesticide Protection

Some beekeepers, particularly those who work closely with growers, coordinate hive placements with pesticide application schedules. They may feel that the pesticide protection aspect of hive registration is unnecessary in their cases. However, hive registration through BeeWhere offers benefits that go beyond individual arrangements:

  • Community-Wide Safety: Not all pesticide applicators may be part of personal agreements. Registration ensures that everyone is informed about hive locations.
  • Backup for Unforeseen Changes: Weather or scheduling issues can disrupt plans. Registration provides a safety net to protect hives.
  • Legal Compliance: Registration is a legal requirement that helps maintain accurate records for the entire agricultural community.

For those already coordinating with growers, registration adds an extra layer of protection, enhancing pollinator safety on a larger scale.

How to Get Started

BeeWhere is easy to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy. To register your hives, visit the BeeWhere website and follow the instructions. You can update hive locations, set up notifications, and access maps—all from the same platform. If you need help, your local County Agricultural Commissioner is just a call away (California Agricultural Commissioners Contact Information).

A Win for Beekeepers and Bees Alike

BeeWhere isn’t just a tool—it’s a testament to what’s possible when technology meets agriculture. By making hive registration simple and effective, BeeWhere helps protect California’s bees while supporting its agricultural economy. For beekeepers, it’s peace of mind; for bees, it’s a lifeline.

When you register your hives, you’re doing more than following the law—you’re safeguarding the future of beekeeping.

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The Fight for Pure Honey

A Beekeeper’s Struggle Against Adulteration

Beekeeping is more than a job; it’s a labor of love. Each jar of honey represents countless hours of work, from tending to hives to battling pests and ensuring colony health. But for many American beekeepers, the reward for their hard work is being undermined by a troubling trend: the rise of adulterated honey.

The Reality of Adulteration

Imagine pouring your heart into producing pure, golden honey, only to see it mixed with cheaper, fake products. That’s the reality many beekeepers face today. Imported honey, often diluted with sugar syrups, and outright fake honey made from flavoring and corn syrup are flooding the market. These counterfeit products are sold at a fraction of the cost, making it nearly impossible for honest beekeepers to compete.

Studies show that a significant portion of honey sold in the U.S. is adulterated. This isn’t just an economic issue—it’s a betrayal of consumer trust and a blow to those who dedicate their lives to beekeeping (FDA Sampling Report on Honey Adulteration).

Beekeepers vs. the FDA: The Push for a Definition

American beekeepers have long called on the FDA to establish a clear, enforceable definition of honey. Without this standard, anything resembling honey can be labeled as such, leaving the door wide open for fraud.

In 2011, industry groups petitioned the FDA to adopt a definition based on international Codex Alimentarius standards (Codex Alimentarius Honey Standard). Sadly, the request was denied. The FDA argued that current laws against misbranding and adulteration were sufficient (FDA Honey Labeling Guidance), but many beekeepers disagree. They see firsthand how the lack of enforcement and clarity harms their livelihoods.

The Personal Toll on Beekeepers

The financial impact on beekeepers is devastating. With fake and imported honey flooding the market, prices have plummeted (Food Safety Tech Article on Honey Fraud). For small and family-run operations, this means tighter margins and, in some cases, the painful decision to leave the industry altogether.

Beekeepers take pride in their work, knowing their honey is a gift from the bees and a product of their stewardship. Watching their hard-earned harvest devalued and blended with subpar alternatives is heartbreaking.

What Happens When Honey Is Mislabeled?

When honey isn’t labeled correctly—especially when it falsely claims to be pure or single-sourced—it not only deceives consumers but also violates federal laws. Penalties for mislabeling can include:

While these penalties exist, enforcement remains inconsistent, leaving honest beekeepers to bear the brunt of the consequences.

How Can Beekeepers Protect Themselves?

Despite the challenges, there are steps beekeepers can take to fight back and protect their livelihoods:

  1. Label Transparently:
    • Make it clear where your honey comes from and what makes it special. Consumers are increasingly seeking local and responsibly sourced products (National Honey Board).
  2. Educate Your Buyers:
  3. Advocate for Change:

A Call to Action

For consumers, supporting local beekeepers is about more than buying honey—it’s about preserving an industry and a way of life. For beekeepers, the fight for fair treatment continues. By raising awareness, demanding transparency, and pushing for stronger regulations, we can ensure that honey remains pure and that beekeepers receive the respect and compensation they deserve.

This cleaned-up version ensures that you can copy and paste it directly to your site without encountering formatting issues. Let me know if you need any additional adjustments!

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Spotlight on Tropilaelaps: The Emerging Threat to Honeybee Colonies

For decades, beekeepers worldwide have battled the relentless varroa mite, but another pest is beginning to raise concerns: the Tropilaelaps mite. Originally native to Asia, Tropilaelaps mites are spreading to other regions, posing a serious threat to honeybee health. Understanding this emerging pest is essential for protecting your colonies.

What Are Tropilaelaps Mites?

Tropilaelaps mites are parasitic pests that feed on honeybee larvae and pupae. Unlike varroa mites, Tropilaelaps mites:

  • Reproduce faster, completing their lifecycle in 5-7 days.
  • Do not survive on adult bees, focusing instead on brood cells.
  • Inflict severe damage in a shorter time due to rapid reproduction.

Source: University of Florida: Tropilaelaps Mites

How Are They Different From Varroa Mites?

While varroa mites primarily weaken adult bees by feeding on their fat bodies, Tropilaelaps mites:

  • Cause brood deformities, reducing the number of healthy emerging bees.
  • Leave colonies highly vulnerable to secondary infections and viruses.
  • Overwhelm hives quickly due to their rapid reproduction cycle.

Source: Veto Pharma: Tropilaelaps Challenges

Recognizing the Signs of Infestation

Early detection of Tropilaelaps mites is critical. Look for:

  • Spotty brood patterns with a high number of uncapped cells.
  • Deformed larvae and pupae with visible injuries.
  • Unusual mite activity on the comb surface.

Source: National Bee Unit: Tropilaelaps Identification

Monitoring and Prevention

To minimize the risk of Tropilaelaps infestation:

  1. Inspect Regularly: Monitor brood frames for signs of mite damage. Use sticky boards or sugar shakes to assess mite levels.
  2. Practice Biosecurity: Avoid importing bees or equipment from areas known to harbor Tropilaelaps mites. Quarantine new colonies before introducing them to your apiary.
  3. Improve Hive Hygiene: Remove and replace infested brood frames promptly. Keep hives clean and well-ventilated to deter pests.

Source: Michigan State University: Tropilaelaps Information

Future Outlook and Preparedness

As global trade increases the spread of Tropilaelaps mites, beekeepers must stay informed. Researchers are developing management techniques and treatment options, but proactive monitoring and biosecurity are your best defense for now.

Source: Entomology Today: Tropilaelaps Threat

Conclusion

Tropilaelaps mites may not yet be as widespread as varroa, but their rapid reproduction and devastating effects make them a serious threat. By staying vigilant and adopting preventative measures, you can protect your hives and ensure the health of your bees.

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Preparing for Early Spring: A Beekeeper’s January Checklist

January is the perfect time for beekeepers to lay the groundwork for a productive spring. While your bees are clustered to stay warm, there’s plenty you can do to ensure they emerge healthy and ready to thrive. Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare for the upcoming beekeeping season.

1. Inspect Hive Conditions

Check for Moisture: Ensure hives are dry to prevent mold and disease. Proper ventilation is crucial during winter months.

Source: Idaho Beekeepers: Wintering Hives

Assess Food Stores: Confirm that colonies have sufficient honey reserves to last until spring. If stores are low, consider emergency feeding options.

Source: Gardening Know-How: Winterizing Bees

2. Plan for Spring Equipment Needs

Repair and Clean Equipment: Use this downtime to fix or replace damaged hive components and clean tools in preparation for the active season.

Source: Bee Professor: Winterizing Beehives

3. Monitor Colony Health

Check for Pests: Regularly inspect for signs of pests like varroa mites, which can weaken colonies during winter.

Source: Mann Lake: Winter Hive Care

4. Plan for Spring Management

Review Hive Records: Analyze notes from the previous year to inform your spring management strategy.

Conclusion

By tackling this January checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for the early spring season. A little planning and preparation now can make all the difference when your bees emerge and the apiary comes to life.

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Winter Hive Care: Protecting Your Bees During the Coldest Months

As winter grips the landscape, beekeepers must ensure their hives are well-prepared to survive the harsh conditions. Winter is a critical time for honeybee colonies, as the cluster must stay warm and well-fed until the first blooms of spring. Here’s how you can help your bees thrive through the coldest months.

Ventilation: Preventing Moisture Buildup

Moisture, not cold, is the biggest threat to overwintering colonies. Bees generate heat and release moisture while clustered. Without proper ventilation, condensation can form on the hive’s interior, leading to damp conditions that chill the bees. Use a moisture board or slightly tilt the hive forward to direct moisture away.

Source: Honey Bee Suite: How to Prepare Your Hives for Winter

Monitor Food Stores

Honey stores are the colony’s lifeline during winter. If you notice bees clustering near the top of the hive, it may signal they’re low on food. Check hive weights periodically, and if stores are depleted, provide emergency feeding:

  • Sugar cakes: A solid block placed above the cluster.
  • Fondant: A softer option that bees can easily access.

Source: BeeKeepClub: How to Control Moisture in the Beehive

Insulation and Windbreaks

While bees are adept at keeping their cluster warm, insulating the hive can help reduce the energy they expend. Wrap the hive with breathable materials designed for beekeeping, and ensure entrances are unobstructed to maintain ventilation. Additionally, create windbreaks using hay bales, fencing, or natural barriers to protect against chilling winds.

Source: Honey Bee Suite: To Wrap or Not to Wrap Your Hives for Winter

Minimal Disturbance

Opening hives during winter can disrupt the cluster and cause significant heat loss. Instead, observe external activity:

  • Are bees taking cleansing flights on warmer days?
  • Is there excessive debris or dead bees at the entrance?

Source: Honey Bee Suite: An Upper Entrance in Winter

Mid-Winter Checkups

On warmer days (above 40°F or 5°C), conduct brief inspections:

  • Verify food supplies.
  • Ensure entrances are clear of debris or ice.
  • Add emergency food if needed.

Source: Honey Bee Suite: Wintertime Hive Prep: A List of Things to Do

Plan Ahead for Spring

Winter is also a time to plan for the active season ahead. Review your notes from the previous year, clean and repair equipment, and order new supplies. Having a solid plan in place ensures you’re ready when the bees are.

Source: Honey Bee Suite: Overwintering Success: The One Thing I Do Differently

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can support your colonies through the winter and set the stage for a productive spring. Remember, proactive care is key to healthy, thriving hives. Stay vigilant and adaptable to meet your bees’ needs during this critical time.