MITE CHECK ALCOHOL WASH CONTAINER
| Model: 4BT-TREATM-BOTTLE-CHECK-PLAST-NLAB | SKU: A0951 |
| ★★★★☆ 3 ratings |
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| Product Overview |
| The Mite Check Alcohol Wash Plastic Container is a reliable tool designed for monitoring varroa mite levels in your hives. Made from durable plastic, it features a screened basket and a secure lid that allow bees to be washed in alcohol or a similar solution. This separates the mites from the bees, making it easy to count them and calculate infestation levels. Lightweight, reusable, and easy to carry, it is one of the most effective tools for managing hive health through regular monitoring. |
| Important Information About the Container |
| To perform a test, collect about 300 bees from brood frames, place them in the container with alcohol, and shake gently so mites fall through the screen for counting. After use, rinse the container thoroughly with water and allow it to dry. Alcohol wash testing is one of the most accurate methods available and helps you determine if varroa populations have reached treatment thresholds. As a guideline, counts translating to about 2 mites per 100 bees in spring or early summer indicate treatment is recommended, and counts above 3 to 5 mites per 100 bees later in the season signal urgent need for treatment. |
| Tips for Beginners |
| Beginners will find this container straightforward once they learn the sampling steps. Always gather bees from brood frames, since this is where nurse bees that carry the most mites are concentrated. Although a sample of bees is lost during testing, the information gained can save entire colonies. If you have more than one hive and one or more tests show a mite count above safe levels, you must treat all hives in the apiary, not just the ones with the highest results. This prevents reinfestation and ensures stronger, healthier colonies going into each season. |