Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is a parasitic mite that affects European honey bees. Australia first detected it in surveillance hives at the Port of Newcastle in June 2022. It is now considered established in NSW, and the national response has moved from attempted eradication to ongoing management.
Varroa mites feed primarily on the fat-body tissue of developing and adult honey bees. Infested bees may become weaker, develop abnormally or become more vulnerable to viruses and other health problems. Without effective monitoring and management, mite populations can contribute to colony decline and hive losses.
NSW beekeepers should regularly monitor their colonies and follow current guidance from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. If you detect Varroa mite in your hives for the first time, report it through the NSW Government’s Report a Biosecurity Concern form.
For advice about mite levels or hive management, contact a NSW Bee Biosecurity Officer at bee.biosecurity@dpird.nsw.gov.au or call the Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244.
How do I know if I have varroa mites?
Adult Varroa mites are small, reddish-brown parasites approximately the size of a sesame seed. They can sometimes be seen on adult bees or developing brood. However, visual inspection alone may miss a low-level infestation.
Signs of a significant infestation may include:
- Weakened or declining colonies
- Bees with deformed wings or shortened abdomens
- Patchy brood patterns
- Reduced numbers of adult bees
- Mites visible on bees, brood or hive debris
These signs are not enough to measure the mite population accurately. NSW guidance recommends using a standard sample of approximately 300 adult bees and an approved monitoring method, such as:
- An alcohol wash
- A soapy-water wash
- A sugar shake
Beekeepers should record the number of mites found and compare the result with the current NSW treatment thresholds. The NSW Government recommends monthly monitoring where possible and additional monitoring during and after treatment.
Read the official NSW Varroa mite monitoring guidance before inspecting or treating a hive.
How Are Varroa Mites Managed?
Destroying an affected hive is no longer the standard response to a Varroa detection in NSW. Beekeepers now manage mite populations through regular monitoring and an integrated pest management plan.
Management may include cultural, mechanical and chemical controls selected according to:
- The measured mite level
- The colony’s development stage
- The amount of brood present
- Whether honey supers are fitted
- Previous treatments and possible chemical resistance
- The directions on the approved product label or permit
Beekeepers should only use products that the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority has registered or permitted for Varroa management. Follow every label or permit direction, including application, safety, honey-harvest and disposal requirements.
NSW guidance also advises beekeepers to rotate chemical modes of action and check mite levels during and after treatment. This helps identify ineffective treatment and reduce the development of chemical resistance.
Use the NSW Government’s Varroa mite management guidance when developing a treatment plan.
Are Varroa Mites dangerous?
Varroa mites do not parasitise humans. However, they pose a serious threat to European honey bees and the industries that rely on managed pollination.
Mite feeding weakens bees and can contribute to the spread of damaging bee viruses. When beekeepers do not monitor and manage an affected colony, increasing mite populations can lead to poor colony health and eventual colony collapse.
People inspecting or treating hives must also consider the normal risks associated with bee stings and agricultural chemicals. Always wear suitable protective equipment and follow the safety directions on any registered product label or approved permit.
How Can Beekeepers Manage Varroa Mite?
NSW beekeepers should take the following steps:
- Register as a beekeeper. Beekeeper registration is compulsory in NSW, and registered beekeepers must meet the Australian Honey Bee Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice.
- Monitor colonies regularly. Use an alcohol wash, soapy-water wash or sugar shake to measure mite levels. Where possible, monitor monthly and keep records of the results.
- Report your first positive detection. Submit the NSW Government’s Report a Biosecurity Concern form.
- Treat according to measured mite levels. Follow the current NSW treatment thresholds rather than applying chemicals automatically.
- Use only registered or permitted treatments. Follow all APVMA label and permit directions. Do not use household pesticides, unregistered products or improvised fumigation methods inside a beehive.
- Check treatment effectiveness. Monitor during and after treatment, and seek advice if the mite level does not fall as expected.
- Reduce chemical resistance. Rotate appropriate modes of action and include suitable cultural or mechanical controls in the management plan.
For personalised guidance, contact a NSW Bee Biosecurity Officer at bee.biosecurity@dpird.nsw.gov.au.
Where to Get Current Varroa Advice
Varroa mite requirements and treatment options can change as authorities learn more about its spread and chemical resistance in Australia.
For current information, monitoring instructions and treatment guidance, visit the NSW Government Varroa mite information page.
Report the first positive detection in your hives through the NSW Government’s Report a Biosecurity Concern form. If a treatment appears to be failing, call the Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244 or email bee.biosecurity@dpird.nsw.gov.au.
