Australia’s bees are facing a new challenge from the Varroa mite — a tiny parasite that weakens honey bee colonies. While the pest poses a serious risk, experts say there is reason for optimism.
Supporting backyard beekeeping can play an important role in maintaining strong pollination for home gardens, crops, and native plants, as unmanaged wild colonies are expected to decline.
Jo and Ally, founders of Waggle & Forage in Victoria, say greater community involvement will be key. “The more people managing hives and looking after them, the better it will be for our backyard vegetable gardens, flowers and the environment in general,” they say.
More hives means stronger pollination
Jo explains that unmanaged “feral” bee colonies living in tree hollows are likely to decline as the mite spreads, potentially reducing natural pollination. This makes managed backyard hives increasingly important for supporting bee populations and maintaining pollination in local environments.
What is Varroa mite?
As Ally, who used to work professionally in bee biosecurity with Agriculture Victoria, explains to Johanna Griggs, “Varroa mite is a very bad little parasite on European honey bees. And it feeds on their fat body tissue. So it’s going to weaken a colony very fast.”
Beekeeping isn’t for everyone
That said, beekeeping is not for everyone. Before jumping in headfirst, Jo says people should carefully consider the time and commitment required to manage a hive.
Your first step: join a local bee club
If you are in a position to start a hive, Ally says your first step is to join a bee club.
“A bee club is a good place to start when you want to get your first beehive because you’ll find someone in your local area who can support you and be a mentor to you.”
Not ready for a hive? The simplest way to help bees
If you don’t have the capacity to be a beekeeper. That’s okay too. There are other ways you can help.
“The best way you can support bees in general is to actually support a beekeeper by buying their local honey.”
Small changes in your garden can make a big impact
Another simple step is planting more flowers each year.
“The potential impact is significant if everyone doubles the number of flowers they plant,” says Jo.
“Most flowers contain nectar, which honey bees forage to survive.”
Varroa mite is a challenge – but it’s manageable
Jo and Ally stress that while Varroa mites are a serious issue, they can be managed with the right knowledge and support.
“It just means we need to manage our bees a little differently and take care of them a bit more,” they say.
“We’re never going to eliminate it completely, but we can manage it and keep mite levels low.”
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