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Mite Management Update 2013
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2013
Monitoring Mites by Sampling
Frame-to-Frame Consistency of Samples
Mite Recovery of the Alcohol Wash
Sticky Boards
Natural Mite Drop vs. Alcohol Wash
Discussion
Experimenting with MAQS Strips
References and Footnotes
Mite Managem... | mites Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/mites/ |
Mite Management Update 2013
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2013
Monitoring Mites by Sampling
Frame-to-Frame Consistency of Samples
Mite Recovery of the Alcohol Wash
Sticky Boards
Natural Mite Drop vs. Alcohol Wash
Discussion
Experimenting with MAQS Strips
References and Footnotes
Mite Managem... | alcohol wash Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/alcohol-wash/ |
Reflections on the Honey Bee Health Summit
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2013
Reflections On The Honey Bee Health Summit
(And Other Random Thoughts)
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in August 2013
Into The Belly of the Beast
Plant Breeders
Drop the Demonization
Let's ... | health summit Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/health-summit/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 7a - The Swarming Impulse
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2015
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline - Part 7a
The Swarming Impulse
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Aug 2015
CONTENTS
The Swarming Impulse
Terminology
R... | swarming Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/swarming/ |
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 1- The "Story"
First published in: American Bee Journal, October 2015
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 1
The "Story"
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First published in ABJ Oct 2015
CONTENTS
Introduction
The Heyday Of Bee Research
Pollen And Beebread
The Roots Of A Beguiling Story
Doubt... | pollen and beebread Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/pollen-and-beebread/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 7a - The Swarming Impulse
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2015
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline - Part 7a
The Swarming Impulse
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Aug 2015
CONTENTS
The Swarming Impulse
Terminology
R... | reproductive swarming Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/reproductive-swarming/ |
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 2 - The Players
First published in: American Bee Journal, November 2015
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 2
The Players
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First published in ABJ Nov 2015
CONTENTS
Why Do Bees Go To Such Effort To Prepare Pollen In This Manner?
Which Microorganisms Are Invol... | microorganisms Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/microorganisms/ |
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 3 - For Preservation or Digestion?
First published in: American Bee Journal, December 2015
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 3
For Preservation Or Digestion?
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First published in ABJ Dec 2015
CONTENTS
Anderson's Investigatory Approach
Previous Research
Iden... | hive-stored pollen Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/hive-stored-pollen/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 7a - The Swarming Impulse
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2015
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline - Part 7a
The Swarming Impulse
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Aug 2015
CONTENTS
The Swarming Impulse
Terminology
R... | predicting swarming Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/predicting-swarming/ |
No Negative Effect From Extended Exposure To Amitraz
First published in: American Bee Journal, July 2015
No Negative Effect From Extended Exposure To Amitraz
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in July 2015
Why are we hearing of elevated rates of queen loss and poor survivability of coloni... | amitraz Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/amitraz/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 9a - The Regulation of Bee Longevity
First published in: American Bee Journal, January 2016
Understanding Colony Buildup And Decline: Part 9a
The Regulation Of Bee Longevity
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in January 2016
CONTENTS
The Busi... | European Honey Bee Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/european-honey-bee/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 9a - The Regulation of Bee Longevity
First published in: American Bee Journal, January 2016
Understanding Colony Buildup And Decline: Part 9a
The Regulation Of Bee Longevity
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in January 2016
CONTENTS
The Busi... | gerontological research Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/gerontological-research/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 9a - The Regulation of Bee Longevity
First published in: American Bee Journal, January 2016
Understanding Colony Buildup And Decline: Part 9a
The Regulation Of Bee Longevity
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in January 2016
CONTENTS
The Busi... | bee female phenotypes Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/bee-female-phenotypes/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 9a - The Regulation of Bee Longevity
First published in: American Bee Journal, January 2016
Understanding Colony Buildup And Decline: Part 9a
The Regulation Of Bee Longevity
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in January 2016
CONTENTS
The Busi... | colony life cycle Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/colony-life-cycle/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 9a - The Regulation of Bee Longevity
First published in: American Bee Journal, January 2016
Understanding Colony Buildup And Decline: Part 9a
The Regulation Of Bee Longevity
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in January 2016
CONTENTS
The Busi... | aging Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/aging/ |
Oxalic Acid: Part 1- Questions, Answers, and More Questions
Oxalic Acid: Part 1 (Of 2)
Questions, Answers, and More Questions
Why Oxalic Acid?
©️Randy Oliver 2006
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in December 2006
European beekeepers, who have dealt with varroa much longer than we have, and who often... | Oxalic Acid: Part 1- Questions, Answers, and More Questions - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/oxalic-acid-questions-answers-and-more-questions-part-1-of-2-parts/ |
K.I.S.S. Breeding for varroa resistance
Open the link below to view the annotated pictorial presentation.
2017 KISS Breeding
and if you want to see us doing smokin' hot mite washin' in real time, Rachel surprised me by figuring out how to prop up her cell phone to take a video of us washing a yard-to see the 36-seco... | K.I.S.S. Breeding for varroa resistance - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/k-i-s-s-breeding-for-varroa-resistance/ |
Mite Management Update 2013
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2013
Monitoring Mites by Sampling
Frame-to-Frame Consistency of Samples
Mite Recovery of the Alcohol Wash
Sticky Boards
Natural Mite Drop vs. Alcohol Wash
Discussion
Experimenting with MAQS Strips
References and Footnotes
Mite Managem... | mite drop Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/mite-drop/ |
The Status of Our Industry Regarding Varroa Management and What Can We Do About It?
The Status of Our Industry Regarding Varroa Management and What Can We Do About It? Part 2 First Published in ABJ August 2023 Randy Oliver ScientificBeekeeping.com CATCH UP Last month I wrote about the options (legal or unapproved) tha... | Suggested Resources for Serious Beekeepers Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/suggested-resources-for-serious-beekeepers/ |
Suggested wording and pitch for an Own Use Exemption
DRAFT IN PROGRESS Updated 24 June 2023
Suggested Text For An Amendment To FIFRA
I have zero legal background, but suggest that we pitch a short and sweet amendment to be placed in the Farm Bill. There is already a section in FIFRA 40 CFR 152.25 regarding exemptions... | Suggested wording and pitch for an Own Use Exemption - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/suggested-wording-and-pitch-for-an-own-use-exemption/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 7b - Minimizing Swarming
First published in: American Bee Journal, September 2015
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline - Part 7b
Minimizing Swarming
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Sep 2015
CONTENTS
The Beekeeper's Dilemma
The Repro... | broodnest Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/broodnest/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 7b - Minimizing Swarming
First published in: American Bee Journal, September 2015
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline - Part 7b
Minimizing Swarming
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Sep 2015
CONTENTS
The Beekeeper's Dilemma
The Repro... | queen pheromones Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/queen-pheromones/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 7b - Minimizing Swarming
First published in: American Bee Journal, September 2015
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline - Part 7b
Minimizing Swarming
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Sep 2015
CONTENTS
The Beekeeper's Dilemma
The Repro... | swarming impulse Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/swarming-impulse/ |
Updates
October 2014:
Hi All,
I'm freshly returned from the Western Apicultural Society Conference in Missoula, where we got to see the state of the art in remote hive monitoring. It won't be long until we have some really user-friendly and affordable hive monitoring devices on the market.
We're also seeing a sea c... | Updates - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/updates/ |
Mite Washer; Still Improving
First published in: American Bee Journal, August 2015
Mite Washer; Still Improving
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in August 2015
The quickest and most accurate way to monitor varroa levels is by the alcohol wash. After the publication of my "improved" washe... | mite washer Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/mite-washer/ |
Queens For Pennies Powerpoint Presentation
You can download the linked Powerpoint presentation below for a slide show to go with my article Queens for Pennies.
Updates: I recently tested several models of lighted magnifying headlamps available from Amazon and was most pleased with the:
Carson Pro Series MagniVisor D... | Queens For Pennies Powerpoint Presentation - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/queens-for-pennies-presentation/ |
Small-scale Queenrearing
This page is not a finished product, but due to requests, I've posted a rough version.
The Oliver "foolproof method" of queen
rearing
Step-By-Step Oliver Modification Of The
"Modified Swarm Box" Starter/Finisher Colony
Click the link below to download my Powerpoint presentation, minus my voi... | Small-scale Queenrearing - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/small-scale-queenrearing/ |
The Rules Redux
My recent article, "The Rules for Successful Beekeeping," got more response (overwhelmingly favorable) than all my previous articles combined! (I've received requests to reprint it in several foreign countries, including a translation into Serbian!). What I also discovered is that there are a few beeke... | treatment Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/treatment/ |
Wheelchair beekeeping
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Idaho beekeeper Randy Geile, who has come up with a clever home-built modification of Langstroth hives that allows those who are wheelchair bound to practice beekeeping. View his video here.
Thank you, Randy!
Category: Beginner's Pages and Pollinator Helpe... | Wheelchair beekeeping - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/wheelchair-beekeeping/ |
The Rules Redux
My recent article, "The Rules for Successful Beekeeping," got more response (overwhelmingly favorable) than all my previous articles combined! (I've received requests to reprint it in several foreign countries, including a translation into Serbian!). What I also discovered is that there are a few beeke... | redux Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/redux/ |
The Rules Redux
My recent article, "The Rules for Successful Beekeeping," got more response (overwhelmingly favorable) than all my previous articles combined! (I've received requests to reprint it in several foreign countries, including a translation into Serbian!). What I also discovered is that there are a few beeke... | rules Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/rules/ |
The Rules Redux
My recent article, "The Rules for Successful Beekeeping," got more response (overwhelmingly favorable) than all my previous articles combined! (I've received requests to reprint it in several foreign countries, including a translation into Serbian!). What I also discovered is that there are a few beeke... | husbandry Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/husbandry/ |
The Rules Redux
My recent article, "The Rules for Successful Beekeeping," got more response (overwhelmingly favorable) than all my previous articles combined! (I've received requests to reprint it in several foreign countries, including a translation into Serbian!). What I also discovered is that there are a few beeke... | commercial beekeeping Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/commercial-beekeeping/ |
Sick Bees Part 17B: Nosema - The Smoldering Epidemic (Part 2)
First published in: ABJ April 2012
The Scientific Method
Effect of the Invasion
Why Would Nosema ceranae Not Cause Problems?
Understanding Nosema
Understanding the Honey Bee Superorganism
Nosema and Energy Metabolism
Nosema and Protein Metabolism
Ref... | Sick Bees Part 17B: Nosema - The Smoldering Epidemic (Part 2) - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/sick-bees-17-nosema-the-smoldering-epidemic/ |
Sick Bees - Part 14: An Update on the "Nosema Cousins"
CONTENTS
Worldwide Status and Distribution
Ceranae vs. apis
Coinfection
Seasonality
Sample Interpretation
What if You're Dealing with N. apis?
Seasonality
Recommendations
Acknowledgements
References
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
In my last arti... | Sick Bees - Part 14: An Update on the "Nosema Cousins" - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/sick-bees-part-13-an-update-on-the-nosema-cousins/ |
Nuc, package, and queen sales and pick up instructions
Revised 16 January 2020
Now taking orders for 2020
Bee Sales by Golden West Apiaries
We are a small short-staffed family business, not nearly as polished as the "big boys," but we do proudly produce and sell top-quality nucs, and a limited number of packages an... | Nuc, package, and queen sales and pick up instructions - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/nuc-pickup-instructions/ |
The Nosema Problem: Part 1 - It's "Common Knowledge" that Nosema Causes Dysentery... But is it Actually True?
Contents
What is dysentery?. 4
So why does everyone think that nosema causes dysentery?. 7
The sad part. 7
Nosema apparently does not cause dysentery. 7
next. 9
citations and notes. 9
The Nosema Problem... | The Nosema Problem: Part 1 - It’s “Common Knowledge” that Nosema Causes Dysentery… But is it Actually True? - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/its-common-knowledge-that-nosema-causes-dysentery-but-is-it-actually-true/ |
Henderson-Tilton calculator
I created a handy spreadsheet in Excel for calculating Henderson-Tilton efficacies. Here's a snip of it:
If you wish, you can enter your raw data into the blue unprotected grid, and then calculate the means or medians (and standard errors of the means if you wish to display them) there. Th... | Henderson-Tilton calculator - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/henderson-tilton-calculator/ |
Zombie bees
A parasitic fly was recently discovered to be infesting honey bees- the press wildly extrapolated it into being the cause of CCD. I've kept in touch with the researchers in San Francisco, and with beekeepers in the affected areas. The study is ongoing.
The fly is a native parasite that normally parasitize... | Zombie bees - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/zombie-bees/ |
Suggested protocol to determine amount of mite immigration
Suggested Protocol To Determine Amount Of Mite Immigration
I've updated at the link below:
@Citizen Science Mite Drift Instructions
Category: Research Updates | Suggested protocol to determine amount of mite immigration - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/suggested-protocol-to-determine-amount-of-mite-immigration/ |
Natural Beekeeping: A Reckoning
There is a great deal of argument about how "naturally" we beekeepers should manage our colonies. But the mere act of "keeping" bees implies that it is unnatural. Truly natural "beekeeping" would be to set out empty cavities (hives or other hollows) for swarms to move into (but not more... | Topics Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/topics/ |
GMO Updates
GMO updates
Please don't parrot misinformation-learn the actual facts!
Introduction
"GMOs" are a hot topic these days, due mainly to the media attention given to a few advocacy groups, as opposed to those who actually understand the science involved in the development of genetically-modified plants. I f... | GMO Updates - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/gmo-updates/ |
Sick Bees - Part 18F5: Colony Collapse Revisited - Synthetic Pesticides
First published in: American Bee Journal May 2013
Sick Bees Part 18f5: Colony Collapse Revisited
Synthetic Pesticides
First published in ABJ May 2013
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
Synthetic Pesticides
Preadaptation
Interactions Between ... | Sick Bees - Part 18F5: Colony Collapse Revisited - Synthetic Pesticides - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/sick-bees-part-18f5-colony-collapse-revisited-synthetic-pesticides/ |
Beginning Beekeeping Class Notes
I've taught beginning beekeeping classes for many years. Over those years, I've made an outline of notes. I've put them into pdf format for your viewing or printout. These are rough notes, but are searchable for subject matter, as well as having a table of contents.
BEGINNERS OUTLINE ... | Beginning Beekeeping Class Notes - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/class-notes/ |
Resources for beginners and those wishing to help pollinators
I Googled the word "beekeeping" today, which came back with 39 million results -- far too many for most of us to read!
The other issue is that with the advent of the Internet, those with strong opinions are free to upload their thoughts, without anyone fir... | Resources for beginners and those wishing to help pollinators - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/beginners-resources/ |
Sick Bees - Part 16: The "Quick Squash" Method for Determining Nosema Prevalence in a Colony
Infection Prevalence Sequential Sampling A Neat Little Shortcut Validation Summary (completely subject to revision) More Details Next Month Acknowledgements References 2019 Quick Nosema Prevalence Assessment Method First publi... | Nosema ceranae Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/nosema-ceranae/page/2/ |
The Evolution of a Beekeeper
I liked this article by Ernie, since it well reflected the typical learning curve of a newbee. The article originally appeared in the Summer 2023 edition of BeesCene, the journal of the BC Honey Producers' Association, and is here included by permission.
Category: Beginner's Pages and Pol... | The Evolution of a Beekeeper - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-evolution-of-a-beekeeper/ |
Natural Beekeeping: A Reckoning
There is a great deal of argument about how "naturally" we beekeepers should manage our colonies. But the mere act of "keeping" bees implies that it is unnatural. Truly natural "beekeeping" would be to set out empty cavities (hives or other hollows) for swarms to move into (but not more... | Natural Beekeeping: A Reckoning - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/natural-beekeeping-a-reckoning/ |
Tips for Citizen Scientists
Tips For Designing Bee Research Projects
Beekeepers are known for being of curious and experimental minds. Since factors affecting beekeeping are continually changing, new unanswered questions are bound to arise; the beekeeper "citizen scientist" can often answer them himself by performing ... | Tips for Citizen Scientists - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tips-for-citizen-scientists/ |
Sick Bees - Part 18D: Colony Collapse Revisited - Agricultural Exposure
First published in: ABJ November 2012
Updates Geomagnetic Flux Driftwatch Back to the Suspects for CCD Ag Exposure A Pesticide-Free Control Group CRP Lands Good News Acknowledgements References Sick Bees Part 18D: Colony Collapse Revisited Agricul... | Colony Health - Diseases, Viruses, CCD Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/colony-health/page/2/ |
Sick Bees - Part 18F2: Colony Collapse Revisited - Plant Allelochemicals
First published in: American Bee Journal February 2013
Sick Bees Part 18f2: Colony Collapse Revisited Plant Allelochemicals First published in ABJ February 2013 Randy Oliver ScientificBeekeeping.com Nature Is Not Nice Toxic Pollen and Nectar Defi... | Pesticide Issues Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/pesticide-issues/page/2/ |
Calculation for nosema spore count using a hemacytometer
Calculation Of Nosema Spore Counts Using Hemacytometer
Randy Oliver, ScientificBeekeeping.com
From Cantwell 1970, assuming that each sampled bee is diluted with 1 mL of water.
Average spore count per bee is then:
Average count per single small square x 4,000... | Calculation for nosema spore count using a hemacytometer - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/calculation-for-nosema-spore-count-using-a-hemacytometer/ |
Bear Fence
Updated parts list: May 23, 2014.
In my area, our apiaries need to be protected from black bears. Over the years, I've developed a simple and effective electric fence design. You can download a pdf of plans and photos here: Bear Fence PDF (updated 11 June 2023).
Category: Miscellaneous articles
Tags: Bear... | Bear fence Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/bear-fence/ |
Oxalic Acid Dribble and Sublimation Updates
Update 28 Oct 2018
Beekeeper Nick Kingan let me know that there's a nice livestock syringe available from Tractor Supply that can be adjusted to dispense 5 mL per squeeze. I find the squeezing of this sort of syringe to be tiring to my hand if I'm treating a large number of... | varroa Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/varroa/ |
Oxalic Acid Dribble and Sublimation Updates
Update 28 Oct 2018
Beekeeper Nick Kingan let me know that there's a nice livestock syringe available from Tractor Supply that can be adjusted to dispense 5 mL per squeeze. I find the squeezing of this sort of syringe to be tiring to my hand if I'm treating a large number of... | oxalic acid Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/oxalic-acid/ |
Oxalic Acid Dribble and Sublimation Updates
Update 28 Oct 2018
Beekeeper Nick Kingan let me know that there's a nice livestock syringe available from Tractor Supply that can be adjusted to dispense 5 mL per squeeze. I find the squeezing of this sort of syringe to be tiring to my hand if I'm treating a large number of... | dribble Archives - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/tag/dribble/ |
The Harvard Study on Neonicotinoids and CCD
A recent press release by the prestigious Harvard School of Public Health claims that one of their researchers has found that Colony Collapse Disorder was caused by a common insecticide used on corn. As an informed beekeeper and environmentalist, I feel that this study calls... | The Harvard Study on Neonicotinoids and CCD - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-harvard-study-on-neonicotinoids-and-ccd/ |
The Birds and the Bees
I was greatly concerned when I read that news item that the neonicotinoid seed treatments might be causing the decline of bird populations. I don't know whether you read the referred paper (http://www.abcbirds.org/abcprograms/policy/toxins/Neonic_FINAL.pdf), which was earnest and detailed. Unfor... | The Birds and the Bees - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-birds-and-the-bees/ |
Does The Crushing of Bees Affect Colony Health?
Beekeeper-Supported Research
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
One concern that I have with the feeding of pollen sub is whether inadvertently crushing bees when you place the patties could lead to transmission of pathogens within the hive.
Introduction
There are... | Does The Crushing of Bees Affect Colony Health? - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/does-the-crushing-of-bees-affect-colony-health/ |
Oxalic crystals on bees after vaporization
Crystals from oxalic acid vaporization on bees' bodies
Randy Oliver
February 2020
In order to determine how OA crystals settled on bees' bodies after an OA vaporization, I set a graduated microscope slide and a number of dead bees under a 16-oz inverted plastic cup. I inje... | Oxalic crystals on bees after vaporization - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/oxalic-crystals-on-bees-after-vaporization/ |
How to perform an alcohol wash
If you prep correctly, it only takes a few minutes to determine the varroa infestation rate of a hive. Here I show how to do it in under 4 minutes.
View a video that my assistant Brooke Molina shot the other day with her cell phone:
Category: Mite Monitoring Methods | How to perform an alcohol wash - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-perform-an-alcohol-wash/ |
Other resources on varroa management
There are a number of other resources for reliable information on varroa management, some of which I'll include links for:
The Honey Bee Health Coalition released this summary of mite management tools in 2015. Free download at Tools for Varroa Management
Category: Varroa IPM Stra... | Other resources on varroa management - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/other-resources-on-varroa-management/ |
Managing Varoa: Part 1 - IPM Realities
First published in: American Bee Journal, March 2011
I welcome practical, tested tips, methods, and assessments from other beekeepers who are successfully keeping bees with varroa. I found this article to be a good reality check on certain varroa IPM methods. It was originally pu... | Managing Varoa: Part 1 - IPM Realities - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/managing-varoa-part-1-ipm-realities/ |
Oxalic Acid: Part 2 Heat Vaporization and Other Methods
Oxalic Acid: Part 2
Heat Vaporization and Other Methods
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
Originally published ABJ Jan 2007
Update December 2016: I suggest that you view my oxalic acid Powerpoint presentation, which I will try to keep up to date-https://scie... | Oxalic Acid: Part 2 Heat Vaporization and Other Methods - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/oxalic-acid-heat-vaporization-and-other-methods-part-2-of-2-parts/ |
California Dreaming vs. California Reality: The Status of Almond Pollination for 2007 - Part 1
California Dreamin' Vs. California Reality:
The Status of Almond Pollination for 2007
Part 1
By Randy Oliver with Keith Jarrett
©️ Randy Oliver 2007
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in October 2006
Photos to ... | California Dreaming vs. California Reality: The Status of Almond Pollination for 2007 - Part 1 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/california-dreamin-vs-california-reality-the-status-of-almond-pollination-for-2007/ |
How to use Randy's Handy mite wash cup
Tips for Using the XXX cup for Monitoring Varroa
TAKING THE SAMPLE
Use an 18-quart dishwashing tub and a stainless-steel half cup (125 mL) measuring cup (for measuring live bees, a deep cup is more accurate than a shallow cup).
Take the bee sample from a frame (or frames) adjace... | How to use Randy's Handy mite wash cup - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/ |
Walking the Walk Selective Breeding for Mite Resistance; 2022 Update, Part 1
Contents Resistance vs. Tolerance or "Survival" 1 Managed apiaries vs. natural evolution. 2 Background. 3 The necessity of Mechanical Agitators 3 The resistant colonies 6 So what's our progress so far?. 10 A built-in lag inherent in open mati... | Varroa Management Archives - Page 2 of 8 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/varroa-management/page/2/ |
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 10- Summer Downsizing and Varroa
First published in: American Bee Journal, March 2016
Understanding Colony Buildup and Decline: Part 10 Summer Downsizing And Varroa Randy Oliver ScientificBeekeeping.com First Published in ABJ in March 2016 At this point in time, the despe... | Bee Behavior and Biology Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/bee-behavior-biology/page/2/ |
The varroa incursion in Australia 4 July 2022
I've been speaking on a daily basis with one of the two beekeepers whose operations are infested, as well as others in the industry.
So far, over 1000 of their colonies have been euthanized, with many more planned to be burned. As you can imagine, this is very emotional fo... | The varroa incursion in Australia 4 July 2022 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-varroa-incursion-in-australia-4-july-2022/ |
The "Nosema Twins" - Part 3 Sampling
The "Nosema Twins"
Part 3 -Sampling
©️ Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Feb. 2008
My previous articles about Nosema ceranae may have grabbed your attention. Let me be clear that I'm not trying to be alarmist--not all operations have problems with nos... | The "Nosema Twins" - Part 3 Sampling - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-nosema-twins-part-3-sampling/ |
The Suck-a-Bee
The Suck-A-Bee
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Aug. 2008
This sleek sucker makes nosema sampling a breeze! And you can build it yourself for about $40.
Randy Oliver
[ ** Suck-a-Bee update: Dirt Devil makes a nearly identical, but more expensive, vac that operates with ... | The Suck-a-Bee - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-suck-a-bee/ |
Fat Bees - Part 3
Fat Bees - Part 3
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in November 2007
I've been focusing on the protein dynamics of the colony. But in order to encourage brood rearing, the colony also needs a nectar flow, or its equivalent. This brings us to the subject of the feeding of s... | Fat Bees - Part 3 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/fat-bees-part-3/ |
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 1- The "Story"
First published in: American Bee Journal, October 2015
Reevaluating Beebread: Part 1 The "Story" Randy Oliver ScientificBeekeeping.com First published in ABJ Oct 2015 CONTENTS Introduction The Heyday Of Bee Research Pollen And Beebread The Roots Of A Beguiling Story Doubting ... | Bee Nutrition Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/bee-nutrition/page/2/ |
de Groot 1953
Thanks to Google for scanning this pioneering and widely-cited study. Since this study is monumentally important to understanding honey bee nutritional requirements, I've unsuccessfully attempted to track down any copyright holder for permission to share it. But as I understand copyright law, since this ... | de Groot 1953 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/de-groot-1953/ |
Extended-Release Oxalic Acid Progress Report #4 - 2018 California Field Trial
First published in: American Bee Journal, November 2018
Extended-Release Oxalic Acid Progress Report #4 2018 California Field Trial Randy Oliver ScientificBeekeeping.com Published in ABJ in November 2018 I've handed my beekeeping operation, ... | Treatments For Varroa Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/varroa-management/treatments-for-varroa/page/2/ |
Simulation of sugar dusting against varroa
Knowing the intrinsic rate of reproduction of the honey bee colony and of varroa, the proportion of mites that are phoretic at the time, and the efficacy of a powdered sugar dusting at removing those phoretic mites, one can create a spreadsheet that will calculate the estimat... | Simulation of sugar dusting against varroa - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/simulation-of-sugar-dusting-against-varroa/ |
Where does fed pollen sub go?
I gave this presentation at the Calif State Beekeepers Convention in 2013.
2013 Where does fed pollen patty pdf
Category: Bee Nutrition | Where does fed pollen sub go? - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/where-does-fed-pollen-sub-go/ |
Almond Pollination 2008 and Beyond
Almond Pollination 2008 And Beyond
The Game Continues
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First published in ABJ Oct 2007
As I write this, it's mid August, and a beekeepers thoughts turn toward almonds. Not the nut, but the beautiful blossoming trees, and especially their need f... | Almond Pollination 2008 and Beyond - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/almonds-2008/ |
Fat Bees- Part 2
Fat Bees- Part 2
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in September 2007
Now that we're gaining an understanding of the role of vitellogenin in honeybee biology, how can we apply that knowledge to keep our bees healthier, to help them be more productive, and to improve the bottom line... | Fat Bees- Part 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/fat-bees-part-2/ |
Fat Bees - Part 1
Fat Bees - Part 1
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in August 2007
What if I told you that there was one amazing molecule in the honeybees' bodies that allows them to store protein reserves, make royal jelly, promotes the longevity of queen and "winter" bees, is a part of ... | Fat Bees - Part 1 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/fat-bees-part-1/ |
The "Nosema Twins" - Part 2 Detection & Microscopy
The "Nosema Twins" - Part 2
Detection & Microscopy
©️ Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Jan. 2008
Last fall, getting wind of Nosema ceranae, I carefully collected a few bees from a dozen or so hives from each yard, and sent the whole poo... | The "Nosema Twins" - Part 2 Detection & Microscopy - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-nosema-twins-part-2-detection-microscopy/ |
Overwintering of Honey Bee Colonies
Overwintering Of Honey Bee Colonies
This subject has long generated endless debate among beekeepers. There are a few excellent resources by those who have collected hard data:
Dr. Floyd Moeller was a USDA researcher who performed extensive field research to test various beekeeping... | Overwintering of Honey Bee Colonies - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/overwintering-of-honey-bee-colonies/ |
Fat Bees - Part 4 Timing and Tummy Aches
Fat Bees - Part 4
Timing And Tummy Aches
©️ Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in December 2007
No matter how well your bees are fed, the benefit will be moot if they're unable to digest it!
Syrup Additives
I mentioned last article that light syrup ... | Fat Bees - Part 4 Timing and Tummy Aches - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/fat-beespart-4-timing-and-tummy-aches/ |
A Test of The Drench Method for Nosema
A Test Of The "Drench" Method Of Nosema Treatment
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Oct. 2008
In previous articles in this journal, I've summarized what we know about Nosema ceranae, its pathogenicity, detection, and treatment. I wondered whether N.... | A Test of The Drench Method for Nosema - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/nosema-drench-treatment-trial/ |
The Varroa Problem: Part 3 - A Creation of Our Own Doing
First published in: American Bee Journal, December 2016
The Varroa Problem: Part 3 A Creation of Our Own Doing Randy Oliver ScientificBeekeeping.com First published in ABJ in Dec 2016 The Varroa Problem didn't just happen--we created it, and we unintentionally p... | Breeding Resistant Bees Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/varroa-management/breeding-resistant-bees/page/2/ |
California Dreaming vs California Reality: The Status of Almond Pollination - Part 2
California Dreamin'
Part 2
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in November 2006
The almond pollination market is dynamic, but I haven't heard of much change since last month. It appears that beekeepers affect... | California Dreaming vs California Reality: The Status of Almond Pollination - Part 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/california-dreamin-part-2/ |
IPM 2 Fighting Varroa 2: Choosing your Troops: Breeding Mite-Fighting Bees
IPM 2 Fighting Varroa 2
Choosing your Troops
Breeding Mite-Fighting Bees
(Second in a series on Integrated Pest Management of varroa)
ScientificBeekeeping.com
Originally published in ABJ, Jan. 2007
I got tired of getting my butt kicked by va... | IPM 2 Fighting Varroa 2: Choosing your Troops: Breeding Mite-Fighting Bees - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/choosing-your-troops-breeding-mite-fighting-bees/ |
The "Nosema Twins" Part 1
The "Nosema Twins"
Part 1
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in December 2007
Nosema ceranae update
The debate continues as to how deadly N. ceranae is. I've been corresponding with Antonio Pajuelo (CONSULTORES APICOLAS (Broken Link!) http://www.pajuelo.info/). He ... | The "Nosema Twins" Part 1 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-nosema-twins-part-1-2/ |
IPM 4 Fighting Varroa : Reconnaissance Mite Sampling Methods and Thresholds
Integrated Pest Management 4:
Fighting Varroa
Reconnaissance Mite Sampling Methods and Thresholds
©️ Randy Oliver 2006
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in March 2007
Three strategies I've found that always fail when battling ... | IPM 4 Fighting Varroa : Reconnaissance Mite Sampling Methods and Thresholds - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/fighting-varroa-reconnaissance-mite-sampling/ |
The "Nosema Twins" : Part 5- Alternative Treatments
The "Nosema Twins"
Part 5
Alternative Treatments And Prevention
©️ Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in April 2008
The more I learn about CCD and other colony maladies, the more I am impressed by the fact that honey bees are currently deal... | The "Nosema Twins" : Part 5- Alternative Treatments - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-nosema-twins-part-5-alternative-treatments/ |
Old Bees/ Cold bees/ No bees? Part 2
Old Bees/ Cold Bees/ No Bees? Part 2
©️ Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in July 2008
One day during his tenure as a professor, Albert Einstein was visited by a student. "The questions on this year's exam are the same as last year's!" the young man excl... | Old Bees/ Cold bees/ No bees? Part 2 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/old-bees-cold-bees-no-bees-part-2/ |
Trial of HoneySuperCell®️ Small Cell Combs
A Trial Of HoneySuperCell®️
Small Cell Combs
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in May 2008
Introduction
There has been considerable discussion as to whether "small cell" foundation (4.9mm diameter vs. the industry "standard" of approximately 5.4mm)... | Trial of HoneySuperCell® Small Cell Combs - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/trial-of-honeysupercell-small-cell-combs/ |
Old Bees/ Cold Bees/ No Bees? Part 1
The Disease that Disappears. 1
The Disappearing Act 2
Colony Population Dynamics and Collapse. 3
Dwindling--What a difference a few days make! 5
Foragers have a short warranty. 7
Protein levels. 9
General infections. 9
Parasites. 10
Viruses. 10
Hot-Blooded Ladies. 12
The ... | Old Bees/ Cold Bees/ No Bees? Part 1 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/old-bees-cold-bees-no-bees-part-1/ |
Nosema Ceranae: Additional Reports and Ramblings
Nosema Ceranae: Additional Reports And Ramblings
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Oct. 2008
Allow me to swap hats, and now speak to you as a beekeeper. As I was writing this article, I was asked similar questions by a number of beekeepers... | Nosema Ceranae: Additional Reports and Ramblings - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/nosema-ceranae-additional-reports-and-ramblings/ |
The "Nosema Twins" - Part 4 Treatment
The "Nosema Twins"
Part 4 Treatment
©️ Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in March 2008
Beekeepers had a hard enough time dealing with Nosema apis. What can we do about N. ceranae? Unfortunately, we are currently not very far up the learning curve. The b... | The "Nosema Twins" - Part 4 Treatment - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-nosema-twins-part-4-treatment/ |
Powdered Sugar Dusting - Sweet and Safe, but Does it Really Work? Part 1
Powdered Sugar Dusting - Sweet And Safe,
But Does It Really Work? Part 1
By Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Dec. 2008
Updated 9 March 2017
The dusting of colonies with powdered sugar as a means of varroa control... | Powdered Sugar Dusting - Sweet and Safe, but Does it Really Work? Part 1 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/powdered-sugar-dusting-sweet-and-safe-but-does-it-really-work-part-1/ |
Field Trial of Several Nosema Treatments
Field Trial Of Several Nosema Treatments
Progress Report
by Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in Oct. 2008
Introduction
With the discovery of Nosema ceranae, and due to reports that the standard treatment with fumagillin may not provide adequate cont... | Field Trial of Several Nosema Treatments - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/field-trial-of-several-nosema-treatments/ |
IPM 5 Fighting Varroa : Biotechnical Tactics - Part 1
IPM 5 Fighting Varroa :
Biotechnical Tactics 1
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in April 2007
(Fifth in a series on Integrated Pest Management of Varroa)
(Photos to be added - check back)
In the "silver bullet" model, any mite kill le... | IPM 5 Fighting Varroa : Biotechnical Tactics - Part 1 - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/fighting-varroa-5-biotechnical-tactics-i/ |
2009 Almond Pollination Outlook
2009 Almond Pollination Outlook
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First published in ABJ November 2008
This is again the time of year when beekeepers want someone to look into the crystal ball and make predictions about the upcoming pollination season. No one that I know of has ... | 2009 Almond Pollination Outlook - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/2009-almond-pollination-outlook/ |
IPM 6 Fighting Varroa The Arsenal: Our Choice of Chemical Weapons
IPM 6 Fighting Varroa
The Arsenal:
Our Choice Of Chemical Weapons
Randy Oliver
ScientificBeekeeping.com
First Published in ABJ in June 2007
I'm clearly in the "minimal chemical" camp, yet all my commercial buddies, without exception, depend upon "off l... | IPM 6 Fighting Varroa The Arsenal: Our Choice of Chemical Weapons - Scientific Beekeeping | https://scientificbeekeeping.com/the-arsenal-our-choice-of-chemical-weapons/ |
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