The arrival of the Varroa mite in Australia has changed beekeeping forever. At Two Busy Beez, protecting the health of our bees is our highest priority. We are committed to using effective, science-based treatments that help keep our colonies healthy while continuing to produce the premium raw honey our customers enjoy.
What is Varroa?
Varroa destructor is a tiny parasitic mite that attacks honey bees. The mites feed on developing brood and adult bees, weakening the colony and spreading harmful viruses. Without regular monitoring and treatment, Varroa populations can quickly increase, eventually leading to the collapse of the hive.
For this reason, responsible Varroa management has become an essential part of modern beekeeping in Australia.
Our Varroa Management Program
At Two Busy Beez, we use an integrated approach to managing Varroa, combining regular mite monitoring with approved treatments when required.
Aluen CAP Oxalic Acid Strips
One of the treatments we use is Aluen CAP Oxalic Acid Strips. These strips are placed between the brood frames, where they slowly release oxalic acid over several weeks. As bees move throughout the hive, they come into contact with the strips, helping distribute the treatment and reduce Varroa mite numbers.
Oxalic Acid Vaporisation
We also use oxalic acid vaporisation when appropriate. During this process, a measured amount of oxalic acid is gently heated using specialised equipment to create a vapour inside the hive. The vapour settles throughout the colony, effectively targeting Varroa mites that are on adult bees while causing minimal disturbance to the hive when carried out correctly.
Vaporisation is often used as part of an overall Varroa management strategy and can be particularly effective when brood levels are low.
Is Oxalic Acid Safe?
Oxalic acid is an organic compound that naturally occurs in many fruits and vegetables, including spinach, rhubarb and beetroot. It has been used by beekeepers around the world for decades as an effective Varroa treatment.
When used according to approved guidelines and product instructions, both oxalic acid strips and vaporisation are considered safe for honey bees and for honey intended for human consumption. We carefully follow all recommended treatment rates, application methods and timing to ensure the health of our bees and the quality of our honey.
Why Treatment Matters
Without effective management, Varroa mites can rapidly weaken colonies and spread disease throughout an apiary. Treating our hives helps us:
- Maintain healthy, productive bee colonies.
- Reduce the spread of Varroa mites.
- Support reliable pollination for local crops.
- Continue producing high-quality Australian raw honey.
Our Commitment
Our bees are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to using responsible, evidence-based Varroa management practices that protect our colonies while maintaining the natural quality of our honey.
By regularly monitoring our hives and using approved treatments such as Aluen CAP Oxalic Acid Strips and oxalic acid vaporisation when needed, we're helping ensure our bees remain healthy, resilient and ready to continue their vital role in pollinating our local environment.