Honey Bee Parasites, Pests, Predators and Diseases

Hives elevated off ground

Strong bee colonies sometimes put up a good fight against skunks and other hive visitors, but weaker colonies usually fall victim. Therefore, maintaining strong colonies is a partial deterrent to animal predation. Skunks and mice may be discouraged by screens or queen excluders attached to the hive entrance. These devices hamper the skunk's efforts to scratch at the front entrance and if it climbs up the screen over the entrance, its belly becomes vulnerable to stings. Elevating the hives on stands (blocks, bricks, etc.) may also serve the same purpose. Fencing the bee yard or placing the colonies on stands is also an effective technique but more costly. Moving your bees to a new location is another option.