This month is the statewide Bee Blitz in Western Australia, an annual campaign encouraging beekeepers to inspect hives for pests and diseases, particularly the devastating varroa mite.
It focuses on early detection to protect the honeybee industry and pollinator services.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development describes the Varroa mite as: “the most serious threat to Western Australia’s healthy honeybee populations, honey production and the crops that rely on bees for pollination. Varroa mite are small, oval-shaped reddish-brown mites that parasitise adult honeybees and the brood.
“It originated in Asia and is now present in parts of eastern Australia but has not been detected in Western Australia yet. The department has implemented preventative measures including strong border controls to safeguard WA’s bee populations.”
Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones has credited the more than 4000 beekeepers of Western Australia for their key role in helping to keep WA’s bee population safe and healthy, through the monitoring of their hives and the reporting of all signs of pests and disease.
“Regular hive inspections throughout the year are the most effective way to detect issues early and ensure WA maintains its varroa-mite-free status, protects our premium honey reputation, and safeguards essential pollination services,” he said, citing advice from the WA Apiarists’ Society and Wheen Bee Foundation.
All those who discover any contamination are urged to report it.
