The introduction of new parasitic insects such as the small hive beetle, tracheal mites, and varroa mites have caused a decline in bee populations. Combined with poor industry practice, these parasites spread rapidly in the US over the last few decades, increasing hive mortality and contributing to the decline of local bee populations.

On a positive note, the industry is adapting. New industry practices are being enforced like destroying hive beetle and foul brood infested hives in California, interstate hive transport laws to protect local bee populations, and new hygienic modified bees that are resistant or can live symbiotically with mites and beetles.

At Honey Bee Rescue, we carefully inspect every colony we rescue for signs of disease and parasites, treating them as needed before introducing them to our managed apiaries.