Honey Bee Pests and Diseases

Virginia & Mid-Atlantic Region Guide

Honey bee colonies in Virginia face a range of pests and diseases that can weaken or destroy hives if left unmanaged. Successful beekeeping depends on regular monitoring, early detection, and integrated pest management (IPM) practices.

Major Honey Bee Pests

Varroa Destructor (Varroa Mite)

Varroa mites are the most serious pest of honey bees in Virginia.

Description:
Reddish-brown external mites that feed on developing brood and adult bees.

Impact:

• Weaken bees by feeding on fat bodies

• Transmit viruses, especially Deformed Wing Virus

• Can cause total colony collapse if untreated

Signs:

• Deformed wings

• Spotty brood pattern

• Declining population

• Mites visible on bees or drone brood

Management:

• Monitor mite levels regularly (alcohol wash, sugar roll)

• Use an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach

• Rotate approved treatments to prevent resistance

Small Hive Beetle

More common in warmer climates but increasingly present in Virginia.

Description:
Small, dark beetles that lay eggs in the hive.

Impact:

• Larvae destroy comb, brood, and stored honey

• Can cause honey fermentation and hive abandonment

Signs:

• Slime trails on comb

• Fermenting honey smell

• Beetles running across frames

Management:

• Keep colonies strong

• Use beetle traps

• Maintain dry, well-drained apiary sites

Wax Moths

A secondary pest that mainly affects weak or stored colonies.

Description:
Moth larvae that tunnel through wax comb.

Impact:

• Destroy comb and woodenware

• Particularly damaging to stored equipment

Signs:

• Webbing in comb

• Tunnels and debris in frames

Management:

• Maintain strong colonies

• Properly store unused equipment

• Freeze comb to kill larvae and eggs

Common Honey Bee Diseases

American Foulbrood (AFB)

A highly contagious bacterial disease of brood.

Cause:
Paenibacillus larvae

Signs:

• Sunken, greasy brood cappings

• Ropy, brown larval remains

• Strong foul odor

Management:

• Confirm diagnosis before action

• Infected colonies often must be destroyed

• Follow Virginia regulations and Extension guidance

European Foulbrood (EFB)

A bacterial brood disease common in spring.

Cause:
Melissococcus plutonius

Signs:

• Twisted or melted larvae

• Yellow to brown larval color

• Spotty brood pattern

Management:

• Improve nutrition and colony strength

• Requeen if necessary

• Antibiotics only when recommended

Nosema

A fungal disease affecting adult bees.

Cause:
Nosema ceranae (most common in Virginia)

Signs:

• Reduced foraging

• Poor colony buildup

• Dysentery (not always present)

Management:

• Ensure good ventilation

• Replace old comb

• Reduce stress and overcrowding

Viral Diseases

Viruses are widespread and often associated with Varroa mites.

Common Viruses:

• Deformed Wing Virus (DWV)

• Black Queen Cell Virus

• Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus

Signs:

• Deformed wings

• Hairless, trembling bees

• Sudden population decline

Management:

• Control Varroa mites

• Maintain strong, well-fed colonies

Best Management Practices (Virginia Tech IPM Approach)

• Inspect colonies every 7–10 days during active season

• Monitor Varroa mites throughout the year

• Maintain strong queens and adequate nutrition

• Practice good sanitation and equipment management

• Use treatments only when thresholds are exceeded

Learn More

For Virginia-specific recommendations, diagnostics, and treatment guidance, consult Virginia Tech Extension and your local Extension agent.