Posted: Sat Nov 08, 14 11:38 pm Post subject: Wax moth?
I took the lid of one of the hives today and the inside top corner was lined with silk cocoons protecting small pink caterpillars. Loads and loads of them. I didn't open up the hive and check the combs because it was not good weather and I didn't have a suit on. On this sparse information do you think I should be worried about wax moth? (I removed them all and the wasp that was in the top with the feeder.)
No camera and I didn't look further into the hive. So organised. I suppose I should try and find a warmer calmer day and have a quick look. It's been so mild until a day or two ago that they have been out and about and I decided to give them the rest of the sugar.
Tavascarow
Joined: 06 Aug 2006 Posts: 8407 Location: South Cornwall
Posted: Mon Nov 10, 14 12:21 pm Post subject:
I've only ever found wax moth in combs. So IMHO probably not a problem.
Generally they are more of a problem in stored combs or weak colonies so I wouldn't worry to much.
I wouldn't open the hive at this time of year & weather anyway.
A thorough inspection in the spring & cut out any larvae you find then at a time the bees are able to repair the combs would be my sdvice.
As Tavascarow says, they are more of a problem with stored comb or sometimes in a weak colony. If there was a wasp in there too, could the colony be a bit weak? Only the winter will really tell. I am afraid if they are, they may not make it through. Make sure they have enough stores and hope for the best.
They are a new colony this year so a bit smaller. The bee inspector did one of his last calls to me and was hopeful that they would make it through the winter. They had at least five bars of capped stores and had turfed out all the drones. They were still collecting pollen until a few days ago. Just hope the winter isn't too mild though.
I suppose I should try and find a warmer calmer day and have a quick look. It's been so mild until a day or two ago that they have been out and about and I decided to give them the rest of the sugar.
Must try and id them as I expect there will be more of them.
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