Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is an external parasite of honey bees and are considered
the greatest threat to Australia’s honey and honey bee pollination plant industries.
Images (varroa mites on Varroa mites on emerging drones. Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera), Crown Copyright;
varroa mite life cycle. www.extension.org) found at www.beeaware.org.au
Varroa destructor was confirmed in several hives in New South Wales in June 2022. Increased vigilance will help protect WA from this high-priority pest. Regular monitoring by all bee keepers will support early detection.
Reporting suspected varroa mites is required by law. Read more at: agric.wa.gov.au/bees/varroa-mite-biosecurity-alert
BEE BIOSECURITY AWARE THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAY
(Below is excerpt from WA Department of Primary Industry media release issued 4 July 2022)
Travellers are reminded not to bring honey or bee products into Western Australia to help safeguard the State’s honey bees from pest and disease threats. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has issued the reminder following the recent detection of Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) in bee hives in New South Wales. WA beekeepers are also encouraged to be alert for signs of varroa mite and other exotic pests, and ensure they are registered with the department. DPIRD chief plant biosecurity officer Sonya Broughton said WA’s bee industry was free from many pests and diseases found elsewhere in the world. “WA has strict import conditions in place for honey bees, bee products, hives and associated equipment,” Dr Broughton said.“Travellers from interstate are not permitted to bring bee products including honey into WA. All bee products must be declared to a Quarantine Inspector upon arrival at a road or airport checkpoint or disposed of prior.”
Read the complete media release, including links for more information, at: DPIRD MEDIA RELEASE 04 July 2022 – Bee Biosecurity Aware These School Holidays
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