Not interested in Beekeeping Supplies? We do a lot more at the farm than just bees. Click here to visit our Farm’s website and online farmstand
The first 3-in-1 Varroa monitoring tool!
Varroa EasyCheck is a practical tool for easy Varroa infestation monitoring on adult bees.
Alcohol wash, sugar roll, CO2 injection. These 3 methods are now available in the same tool. It's up to you to choose the method that suits you best!
Alcohol Wash
- Alcohol wash consists of immersing a sample of bees into alcohol and then gently shaking the EasyCheck to detach the phoretic mites so they can be counted
- Advantages: Fast and easy, it is recognized as the most accurate, reliable, and economical option for beekeepers
- Alcohol Method video
Icing Sugar Roll
- With this method, the bees are rolled with powdered sugar, causing the mites to separate from the bees
- The EasyCheck is then gently shaken, causing the sugar and the mites to pass through the white basket's holes
- Advantages: Inexpensive and keep the sample of bees alive
- Sugar Roll Method video
CO2 Injection
- The CO2 method, bees, and mites are rendered unconscious by exposure to carbon dioxide gas
- The sample of anesthetized bees is then gently shaken in the EasyCheck, causing the mites to fall from the bees
- Advantages: Fast and keep the sample of bees alive. Research conducted in Europe indicated results similar in accuracy to alcohol wash
- CO2 Injection Method video
Sample Size
- There are two lines on the white basket of the Varroa EasyCheck
- Lower line corresponds to about 200 bees and the upper line corresponds to 300 bees
- We advise you to take 300 bees to obtain the most accurate results possible
- In the case of weaker colonies, you can reduce this number to 200 bees
- You will obtain your infestation percentage by dividing the number of varroa found by 2 (if 200 bees) or 3 (if 300 bees)
Example: If you find 5 varroa mites with 300 bees, you have an infestation percentage of 5/3 = 1.66%
Number of mites = % Varroa infestation
3 for 300 bees
2 for 200 bees
(adjust according to sample size)
Features
- Designed for effectiveness: The filter basket is the key to EasyCheck’s reliability
- Quick and easy to use 3 easy steps
- Easily transportable and built to last
- Tight-fitting lid is leak-free and comfortable to use
- Two molded guidelines allow for samples of 200 or 300 bees
- Designed for effectiveness: Fallen mites pass through holes in the base and sides of the basket
- Transparent bowl allows accurate counting and reliable sampling
Depending on location and the time of year, alert thresholds range from > 1% to 5%. Check with your local association to determine thresholds in your area.
Education
