Poison & Chocolate

Had to do what every beekeeper hates doing - treating their girls against the dreaded varroa destructor mite which is to be found in almost every hive worldwide with the exception of certain islands eg Hawaii and Australia was said to be free of it, at least until around mid 2010s.

There are several different methods, some using synthetic chemicals but most tend to try and use organic methods. In my case formic (ant) acid. Involves putting the liquid on to pads and then in the hives for 12-24 hours where it evaporates creating for us humans unbearable fumes. Simply dispensing it on to the pads requires gloves, eye & skin(long sleeve) protection and a handy supply of fresh water should one get any splashes.

In the evening out for the walk and pleased there are still some wildflowers for the girls to have a go at and reduce the shock.