10 x 8 Frames Varroa Mite Sticky Board Mat Varroa Detection

Name: 10 x 8 Frames Varroa Mite Sticky Board Mat Varroa Detection
SKU: 1096
Price: 35.00 AUD
Availability: InStock

$35.00

Sticky mats are a tool for monitoring varroa mite infestations by placing a sticky, disposable board in a beehive’s screened bottom board to trap falling mites. They are used by beekeepers to assess infestation levels without opening the hive, though they are not a complete treatment on their own and are best used alongside other monitoring methods like sugar shakes or alcohol washes. The mat is typically left in place for 48-72 hours to collect mites that fall from the bees, then removed to count the mites to gauge the infestation’s severity. A mesh screen is often used on top of the mat to prevent bees from sticking to the surface.

Category: Varroa Control&Treatments

How to use a sticky mat

Prepare the mat: Peel the protective cover off the adhesive side of the sticky mat.
Place the mesh: Place a plastic mesh screen on top of the sticky mat to keep bees from getting stuck on the adhesive.
Insert the mat: Slide the sticky mat with the mesh into the tray of a screened bottom board, making sure it is inaccessible to the bees.
Wait and monitor: Leave the mat in place for 48 to 72 hours to allow mites to fall and be trapped.
Inspect the mat: After the monitoring period, pull out the mat, count the trapped varroa mites, and use the count to estimate your hive’s mite level.

Why use a sticky mat

Monitoring: It is a simple, non-invasive way to check for varroa mites without killing bees.
Surveillance: Sticky mats can also help monitor for other pests like Small Hive Beetle and wax moths.
Treatment planning: The information gathered from the sticky mat helps beekeepers decide when and if they need to apply a more intensive treatment.

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