Here at Regenerative Farms we also keep honeybees.
All us beekeepers in Australia are currently holding our breath as authorities and beekeepers alike rush to help find and eradicate the varroa mite that has made its way to our shores.
Australia has been the last untouched frontier for this little mite and we plan to keep it that way.
The varroa mite is a small external parasite that attaches itself to honey bees.
They can feed on the bee but also do most of their feeding and breeding on the larvae and pupae within the colony. This causes malformation and weakening of the developing bee, and transmits various viruses.
Farming is a tough gig with plenty of challenges and this year has been worse than most. For the beekeepers in NSW, they have had to cope with loss of hives and habitat due to extreme flooding and now the threat of the varroa mite meaning the extermination of 1000’s of hives.
I am sure we will be able to get on top of this outbreak and get back to normal soon.
Whatever the outcome though, I know we will be able to cope.
So keep positive and continue to support your local farmers.
The varroa mite has not made its way into Victoria as yet, but we have been asked to do a hive inspection and keep vigilant.
Midwinter is not ideal time to do a hive inspection but can be done on a calm, sunny done around 14 degrees+.
I thought you may like to be a part of a hive inspection so I invite you to join me as I video myself making sure we are currently clear of this pest.
Thanks for joining me and for all your continued support not just for us but for all your local farmers whatever they produce.
Keep smiling,
Keep buzzing,
Farmer Steph.
