Report bee hive check

Alert

In June 2022, varroa mite (Varroa destructor) was detected in New South Wales. In September 2023, the National Management Group announced that eradication of varroa mite was no longer feasible and will transition into a management phase. During this transition, no permits for moving beehives and bee-related material from New South Wales into Queensland will be issued.

Queensland remains free of varroa mite. Queensland beekeepers should:

  • continue to regularly monitor their hives for varroa mite
  • immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
  • report the findings of hive checks using the Bee 123 form, even if no suspect mites are found.

Early detection is key to containment of tracking of this pest.

Report your results

Use the Bee 123 form to report any checks you have made on your hives, even if you do not find any suspect mites.

We use this information to understand the number and health of beehives in Queensland. This helps us prepare in case varroa mite enters Queensland.

Reporting a suspect sample

To report a suspect sample:

  1. take a photo
  2. save the sample
  3. report online.

If you are unable to take a photo, contact us on 13 25 23.

Take a photo

The best photo of suspected varroa mite includes:

  • the mite against a white background
  • clear view of the specimen, separated from other material
  • specimen laying right-side-up (legs down) or upside-down (legs up)—as long as the shape of the mite is clearly visible
  • something in the photos for size comparison (e.g. cotton bud, coil or pencil).

Placing the mite on the tip of a cotton bud is the preferred method.

photos of varroa mite specimens resting on the tip of a white cotton bud.photos of varroa mite specimens resting on the tip of a white cotton bud.
Images: These images are a perfect example of good photos of varroa mite using a standard smart phone

Save the sample

You must save the sample of your suspect varroa mite.

Place any suspect mites into a sealable container or plastic zip-lock bag and keep them in the freezer.

A biosecurity officer will contact you after you report your suspect varroa mite.

Report your results

Use this form to report any checks you have made on your hives, even if you do not find any suspect mites.

We use this information to understand the number and health of beehives in Queensland. This helps us prepare in case varroa mite enters Queensland.

Report your results

For more information, phone us on 13 25 23 or send an email to info@daf.qld.gov.au.

  • Last reviewed: 8 Jul 2022
  • Last updated: 7 Mar 2023