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Two Bees in a Podcast
We are excited to share our "Two Bees in a Podcast". Have questions or comments? Please contact us at honeybee@ifas.ufl.edu
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Episode 66: European Honey Bees & Sting Management
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on July 14, 2021, we are joined by Dr. Ralph Buechler, Director of the Bee Research Institute, to discuss European Honey Bees. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss sting management and how stings work. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Do you know if there is anyone out there doing research into drone fertility and sperm load?
- Are food resources gathered from robbing reflected by the field force through the waggle dance? How close to the hive can the waggle dance indicate food?
- Why does the queen take 16 days to develop while the workers take 21 days, and the drones take 24 days?
Resources
Best Management Practices for Stings: ENY115/AA137: Best Management Practices for Siting Honey Bee Colonies: Good Neighbor Guidelines (ufl.edu)
European bees: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/in1005
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/IN/IN100500.pdf
Difference between European and African bees: http://agrilife.org/masterbeekeeper/files/2017/04/Differences-Between-European-and-African-Honey-Bees.pdf
Dr. Ralph Buchler: https://www.unlv.edu/people/ralph-buechler
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Episode 65: Infectious Disease Biology & Startup Cost
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on July 7th, 2021, we are joined by Lewis Bartlett, a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Georgia Honey Bee Program, to discuss infectious disease biology. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss hive types. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Often times you see bees in or around soda cans, would flat sprite be a substitute for simple syrup?
- If guard bees can tell the difference between one bee and another even hours after the forager has left the hive, can they not tell the difference between the smell of bananas that I had with breakfast than the alarm pheromone?
- I’ve been taking notes for years now and now I'm at a loss of what’s important to record, how to use it, and what is just busy work?
Resources
Lewis Bartlett: https://www.bartlett.science/
Diseases due to pesticides: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1027
Nosema spores infection: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/in1123
Profitability in mid size bee keeping operation: https://ufdcimages.uflib.ufl.edu/IR/00/00/44/03/00001/AA08900.PDF
Colony collapse disorder: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/pestalert/Colony_Collapse_Disorder.htm
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Episode 64: Heroes to Hives & Basic Swarm Management Techniques
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on June 23rd, 2021, we are joined by Elina Niño from the University of California Davis to discuss drone contributions impacting queen success. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss the stimuli that lead to swarming. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- How long can a queen stay in the cage and stay healthy until they are able to be put in a split? How do you take care of them (feed them, keep them alive, etc)?
- When a colony swarms, how long does it for a new queen to mate and then to begin laying eggs? How long is the brood break usually?
- How often do hives have two mated and laying queens and how and why does this happen?
Resources
Swarm control: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/in970
Eradication of swarms: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/in778
Adam Ingrao: https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/adam_ingrao
Heros to Hives: https://www.canr.msu.edu/veterans/background
Bee Wise Farms LLC: https://www.beewisefarms.com/
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Episode 63: Drone Contributions Impacting Queen Success & Stimuli that Lead to Swarming
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on June 23rd, 2021, we are joined by Elina Niño from the University of California Davis to discuss drone contributions impacting queen success. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss the stimuli that lead to swarming. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- When looking at heat treatments for Varroa control purposes, what are the pros and cons to different treatments?
- To prevent inbreeding, a queen flies to a drone congregation area much further away than drone. By moving a drone source, are we potentially undermining this protection?
- Is honey from hives treated with Apivar safe for consumption?
Resources
Dr. Elina Niño: https://elninobeelab.ucdavis.edu/people/elina-nino
Swarm control: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN970
Swarm management: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/entnemdept/2019/07/15/swarm-management-basics/
Eradication of swarms: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/in778
Honey bee drones contributions to honey bee queen: https://res.mdpi.com/biology/biology-09-00174/article_deploy/biology-09-00174.pdf
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Episode 62: Honey Bee Waggle Dance & Hive Type Perspectives
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on June 16th, 2021, we are joined by Margaret Couvillon from Virginia Tech to discuss waggle dances and honey bees. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss hive types from historical and practical perspectives. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- In order to maintain gentle behavior, is it necessary to bring in new genetics every couple of seasons, or can I leave my genetics be?
- Have you heard of honey bees eating food from bird feeders?
- How long does brood capping take?
Resources
Margaret Couvillon: https://www.ento.vt.edu/people/Faculty0/Couvillon.html
The Langstroth Hive: 3,-March-2014,-Langstroth-Hive,-low-res.pdf (ufl.edu)
Observation Bee Hives: ENY131/MG320: Observation Bee Hives (ufl.edu)
Field Guide to Beekeeping: 26,-February-2016,-Thermoregulation-and-Dance-Language,-low-res.pdf (ufl.edu)
The Tasks of a Worker Honey Bee: 22,-October-2015,-Tasks-of-Worker-Bees,-low-res.pdf (ufl.edu)
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Episode 61: Beekeeping-Landowner Relations & Installing Packages
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on June 9, 2021, we are joined by J.K. Yarborough, livestock and natural resources extension agent from Seminole County, to discuss the relationship between beekeepers and landowners. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss package installation. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Is there anything anyone can do under the hive to impair small hive beetle reproduction?
- Why are brood cappings darker and non-translucent compared to honey cappings?
- What is the best way to put packages into drawn comb?
Resources
J.K.Yarborough: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/orange/agriculture-and-natural-resources/agriculture-and-natural-resources/
Sample Pollination Agreement: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AA169
Installing Packages and Nucs: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/16,-April-2015,-Installing-Packages-and-Nucs,-low-res[1].pdf
Small Hive Beetle: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in854
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Episode 60: Varroa IPM & Acquiring Bees
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on June 2, 2021, we are joined by Kim Skyrm, Massachusetts Chief Apiary Inspector, and Jen Lund, Maine Bee Inspector, to discuss Varroa IPM. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to acquire bees and queens. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- What is cross-wire foundation and does it differ from crimped wire?
- Is it true that queens are dying earlier than they used to historically?
- I want to move all of my stock to VSH. What is the best way to do this?
Resources
Kim Skyrm: https://www.mass.gov/apiary-program-honey-bees
Jen Lund: http://mainebeekeepers.org/beekeeping-resources/maine-bee-inspector/
Northeastern IPM Center: https://www.northeastipm.org/
Varroa Mite IPM: Four-Part Series for a Healthy Hive (2020): https://www.northeastipm.org/index.cfm/ipm-in-action/the-ipm-toolbox/varroa-mite-ipm-four-part-series-for-a-healthy-hive-in-2020/
Apiary Inspectors of America: https://apiaryinspectors.org/
Acquiring Bees and Queens:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/h0xfamw26tbsz32/AADa6ntEDyQlxHMX4OeTnXHDa?dl=0&preview=13%2C+January+2015%2C+Acquiring+Bees+and+Queens%2C+low+res.pdf -
Episode 59: Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus & How to Requeen
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on May 26, 2021, we are joined by Adam Dolezal, Assistant Professor of Entomology from the University of Illinois, to discuss Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to requeen a colony. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Is there anything that can be used to deter wax moths?
- Are we making our bees lazy by feeding them instead of encouraging them to forage?
- Is there a certain percentage of dead bees that is acceptable upon being delivered in the mail?
Resources
Adam Dolezal: https://sib.illinois.edu/profile/adolezal
IAPV causes changes in behavior: https://www.pnas.org/content/117/19/10406.short
Requeening a Beehive: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/requeening-a-beehive/
Requeen Using Nucs: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in869
Wax Moth Control: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/aa141
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Episode 58: Best Management Practices for Backyard Beekeepers & Why to Requeen Colonies
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on May 20, 2021, we are joined by Kelly Kulhanek, Postdoctoral Associate in the Department of Entomology at Washington State University, to discuss best management practices for backyard beekeepers. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss why you should requeen colonies. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Do you recommend a certain brand of nematode to treat small hive beetle larvae?
- What are some ways I can get a more accurate mite count?
- Is there a scientific name for the substance that the queen uses to glue eggs to the bottom of cells?
Resources
Kelly Kulhanek: https://beeinformed.org/bip_team/kelly-kulhanek/
BMP’s for Backyard Beekeepers: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348532279_Survey-derived_best_management_practices_for_backyard_beekeepers_improve_colony_health_and_reduce_mortality
Requeening a Beehive: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/requeening-a-beehive/
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Episode 57: Carpenter Bees as Pests & Requeening Using a Nuc
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on May 13, 2021, we are joined by Dr. Bill Kern, Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology & Nematology at the Ft. Lauderdale Research and Education Center of the University of Florida, to discuss carpenter bees being a pest to honey bees. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to requeen colonies using a nuc. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- What are screened bottom boards even good for?
- Do I need to close my screened bottom boards based on the time of year or humidity?
- Are we helping bees with thermoregulation by using screened bottom boards?
Resources
Bill Kern:https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/dr-william-kern/
Carpenter Bees: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_carpenter_bees
Using Nucs in Beekeeping Operations: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in869
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Episode 56: Buckfast Bees, YouTube, & Hiving a Nuc
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on May 6, 2021, we are joined by Paul Kelley, Staff Apiarist at the University of Guelph in Canada, to discuss Buckfast Bees and educational YouTube content. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to hive a nuc. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Is there a recommended temperature range for using oxalic acid vaporization treatments?
- Do you have a recommended sugar water recipe?
- How long must Apis mellifera (or any non-native species) be in an area before it’s considered native, or will it always be considered non-native?
Resources
Paul Kelly: https://ses.uoguelph.ca/people/paul-kelly
Buckfast Bee Breeding: https://honeybee.uoguelph.ca/buckfast-breading/buckfast-breeding-presentation/
Paul Kelly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkHR7FlPvlQ
Using Nucs in Beekeeping Operations: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in869
Oxalic Acid Vaporization Dose: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00218839.2021.1877447
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Episode 55: 2021 New Ruling on Oxalic Acid and Marking Queens
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on April 22, 2021, we are joined by our very own Dr. Cameron Jack, assistant professor in the UF Entomology and Nematology Department, to discuss the new ruling on oxalic acid in honey and how this impacts its use in hives. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss the why’s and how’s of marking queens. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- How long do you wait between catching a swarm and putting it in their permanent hive?
- How long does sugar water last in the refrigerator?
- What is washboarding?
Resources
Cameron Jack:http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/people-directory/cameron-jack/
Efficacy of Oxalic Acid Vaporization: https://academic.oup.com/jee/article/113/2/582/5697464?login=true
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Episode 54: The Benefits of Pollen to Bees & Using a Smoker
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on April 15, 2021, we are joined by Gloria Degrandi-Hoffman, Research Leader at the Carl Hayden Bee Research Center in Tucson, Arizona, to discuss the benefits of pollen to honey bees. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to use a smoker when working colonies. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Like many beekeepers, I’ve dealt with laying workers. I’m curious if those bees might be in that middle ground between a worker and a queen. Has there been any research done to explore that middle ground or is it an all or nothing switch during development?
- I have a totally "off label" use for QMP. I use one when doing a removal to get all the bees to go into to box when I am not 100% sure if I have the queen.
I was doing one last week and all the bees got in the box by evening. I tried to directly release the queen into the hive not even 24 hours later, and the bees appeared to ball her. I don't yet know if she made it or if they killed her. The QMP was in the hive overnight, but I took it out as soon as I opened them up the next morning. I really felt that with such a short time they would accept her, but maybe the overnight out of the hive shut her down just enough. What happened? - If we are looking to start a queen-rearing program, should we purchase artificially inseminated VSH Breeder queens? We will not be able to control the drones at the DCAs. We can purchase breeder queens each year, but that is not sustainable. Would it better to use local over-wintered queens as our breeders?
Resources
Gloria Degrandi-Hoffman: https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/tucson-az/carl-hayden-bee-research-center/people/gloria-degrandi-hoffman/
The Hive Tool and Smoker: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/5,-May-2014,-Hive-Tool-and-Smoker,-low-res.pdf
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Episode 53: Tropilaelaps Mites & Characteristics of Healthy Honey Bee Colonies
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on April 8th, 2021, we are joined by Dr. Sammy Ramsey to discuss the Tropilaelaps mite. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss the characteristics of healthy honey bee colonies. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- What are the different types of sugars to feed bees?
- How do you feel about communal feeding? Does it spread disease? Does it enhance or promote robbing?
- What is the best way to brand my boxes? Do I burn first and then paint, or the other way around?
Resources
Sammy Ramsey:https://www.drsammy.online/about
Tropilaelaps mites- EDIS: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1061
Tropilaelaps mites- BeeAware: https://beeaware.org.au/archive-pest/tropilaelaps-2/#ad-image-0
Characteristics of Healthy Honey Bee Colonies: https://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=293541&article_id=2422343&view=articleBrowser&ver=html5
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Episode 52: Impact of Land Use on Pollinators & Colony Inspection Techniques
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on April 1st, 2021, we are joined by Dr. Clint Otto from the USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center to discuss the impact of land use changes on honey bees and other pollinators. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss proper colony inspection techniques. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Do hives turn drone comb back into worker brood?
- What is the impact of pollinator gardens on crop pollination?
- Is there any research regarding the effects on queen pheromones on humans?
Resources
Clint Otto:https://www.usgs.gov/staff-profiles/clint-otto
Best Management Practices for Maintaining European Honey Bee Colonies: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in874
FDACS Apiary Inspection: https://www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Bureaus-and-Services/Plant-and-Apiary-Inspection/Apiary-Inspection
Conducting a Hive Inspection: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/39,-July-2017,-Conducting-a-Hive-Inspection[1].pdf
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Episode 51: Beekeeping in Denmark & Picking Apiary Locations
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on March 25th, 2021, we are joined by Flemming Vejsnæs to discuss beekeeping in Denmark and his role in the Danish Beekeeper’s Association. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to pick a location for your apiaries. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Is “tanging” bee swarms a real thing? If so, what is the science behind the fact that a swarm of bees is attracted to the sound of metal being hit together?
- Do Varroa-related issues affect value-added products such as the quality of the honey, wax, etc.?
- How do you manage honey moisture in dry climates?
Resources
Flemming Vejsnæs: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Flemming-Vejsnaes
Choosing the Right Location for Your Apiary: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/9,-September-2014,-Choosing-Apiary-Site,-low-res.pdf
Swarm Control for Managed Beehives: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in970
Varroa: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/AA09000-Pests-and-Diseases.pdf
Honey Equipment: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/34,-November-2016,-Basic-Equipment-Needed-to-Extract-and-Bottle-Honey.pdf
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Episode 50: Insulating Honey Bees & Good Neighbor Guidelines
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on March 18th, 2021, we are joined by Bill Hesbach to discuss over-wintering and insulating honey bees. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss how to be a good neighbor when it comes to beekeeping. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- If I wanted to requeen a hive and were to put a stick of Queen Mandibular Pheromone when removing the old queen, would the bees not sense queenlessness and therefore not build queen cells? After the window of opportunity passes for them to make queen cells (aged larvae greater than 3 days old?), would they then be more amenable to accepting my new queen?
- If a beekeeper should accidentally drop a full frame of bees and brood on the ground, will the youngest of the nurse bees on that frame be able to find their way back inside the hive? If the hive is on a hive stand 18 inches above the ground, does this mean any bees crawling back to the hive will be doomed? On the same lines, what would happen to a queen if she fell off the frame during an inspection?
- What is the optimal way for bees to build new comb (as well as store new nectar) as the spring flow is about to start? Should I add only built out foundation so that the bees have ready storage?
Resources
Mitigating the Threat Your Bees Pose to Others: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/29,-May-2016,-Mitigating-the-Threat-Your-Bees-Pose-to-Others,-low-res.pdf
Choosing an Apiary Site: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/9,-September-2014,-Choosing-Apiary-Site,-low-res.pdf
Best Management Practices: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/aa137
Bill Hesbach and Winter Management: https://www.beeculture.com/winter-management/
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Episode 49: Social Media & Rules and Regulations
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, released on March 11, 2021, we are joined by Ian Steppler, who discusses his commercial beekeeping and his large social media platform. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss the rules and regulations of beekeeping. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Why is swarm control so important other than for high honey yields and preventing being pests to others?
- How do I prevent mosquito breeding in my water sources without changing/agitating the water every couple of days? Should I utilize mosquito fish, or would they bother the bees?
- What’s the best method of storing supers and deep frames season to season?
Resources
Rules and regulations:
Field Guide to Beekeeping: Beekeeping Rules and Regulations
A Canadian Beekeeper’s Blog: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkQVs6-xm3mVNdwW4Zt8McQ
Honey Bee Swarming: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in874
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Episode 48: Extension & Time Dedication to Beekeeping
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, we are joined by Randall Cass from Iowa State University, who will be discussing his role in extension and outreach, including providing beekeeping information to predominately Spanish-speaking communities. In the 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy discuss the time dedication required for beekeeping depending on the number hives and season. This episode is concluded with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- I am preparing for the spring and currently have a single deep. Eventually I would like to have one deep and one medium. When should I put the medium on? Or is something else recommended? Also, if I plan on adding a queen excluder and another medium super, would I add both the medium boxes at the same time?
- Can you explain what you mean when you say you are “dissecting” a hive?
- If I have a large hive with a small Varroa load, should I use a hard control to target the small percentage of Varroa, or should I use a soft control to maybe stress the bees less, or does it not make a difference?
Resources
Randall Cass’s e-mail: randall@iastate.edu
Randall Cass’s Instagram: @iowastatebees
Varroa Decision Guide: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/varroatool/
Beekeeping Time Dedication: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in848
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Episode 47: Cape Honey Bees & Benefits of Starting Colonies with a Nuc
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Madeleine Beekman from the University of Sydney, who will be discussing Cape honey bees and worker policing. In the 5 Minute Management segment, we will be discussing the benefits of starting a colony with a nuc. This episode will be ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Do nematodes survive in the winter? What do nematodes have to do with honey bees?
- Is there a way to extend a nectar flow? What are some heavy-duty nectar producers that can be grown in pots?
- Could a hobbyist beekeeper successfully integrate any of these tolerant and/or hygienic genetics into their apiaries?
Resources
Madeleine Beekman: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our-people/academic-staff/madeleine-beekman.html
Worker Policing: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rsbl.2005.0294
Cape bee: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2593727/
Nematodes and Small Hive Beetles: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in854
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Episode 46: Kim Flottum & Starting Colonies with Packages of Bees
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, we are joined by Kim Flottum, the former Editor of Bee Culture magazine, who continuously gets information out about bees through numerous podcasts and books. In our 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy will focus on starting colonies with packages of bees. We end today’s episode with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Can a queen excluder be used if it is rusted? How can the rust be removed safely?
- Do queens lay different sized eggs in different cell types? What is the cell size difference?
- If you are able to capture a swarm that happens before the honey flow, is it possible to return some of the workers back to the parent hive?
Resources
Kim Flottum: https://www.beeculture.com/kim-flottum-bee-culture-editor/
Beekeeping Today Podcast: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/
Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com/
2 Million Blossoms: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/2-million-blossoms-kirsten-traynor-s2-e09/
Honey Bee Swarming: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in874
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Episode 45: Suppressed in Ovo Virus Infection & Necessary Beekeeping Equipment for Beginners
In this episode, we are joined by Professor Dirk de Graaf from Ghent University, who discusses suppressed in ovo virus infection (SOV). In our 5 Minute Management segment, Jamie and Amy will discuss the beekeeping equipment that is necessary for getting started in beekeeping. This episode is ended with a Q&A segment.
Q&A
- Has there been any research to determine if moving an egg is a honey bee behavior?
- Honey bees rob each other for different resources. Would it be possible for honey bees to rob eggs from different colonies?
- What do you think about using a leaf blower to remove bees from honey supers? Is this harmful to bees or is there another method that you prefer to remove bees from honey supers?
Notes and additional resources
Professor Dirk de Graaf: https://biblio.ugent.be/person/800000008061
Scientific Reports: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-71388-x
Beekeeping Equipment: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/beekeeping-equipment/
Robbing Behavior in Honey Bees: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1064
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Episode 44: Local Honey Bees in the UK & Foundation Type Pros & Cons
In this episode, we are joined by Norman Carreck, a beekeeper from the UK and Carreck Consultancy, who discusses local honey bees and adaptation. This is followed by our 5 Minute Management section, where Jamie and Amy discuss the pros and cons of the different types of foundation. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- One day, I check my hives and everything looks good. The next day, there are hundreds of dead bees on the bottom screen and the ground outside of the hive. What causes this? Where can I have an autopsy done?
- My equipment came into contact with a Raid fumigator. Can it still be used if it is aired out for a while?
- We know that a colony will replace their queen if she is "damaged". Has any research been done on what constitutes damage? If I clip a queen's wing, is she more likely to be perceived as damaged?
Notes and additional resources
Norman Carreck: https://profiles.sussex.ac.uk/p230460-norman-carreck
British Beekeeping Association: https://www.bbka.org.uk/find-beekeeping-near-you
COLOSS: https://coloss.org/
The BeeMD: http://www.thebeemd.com/
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Episode 43: Temperature Stress of Queen Quality and Types of Foundation
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Alison McAfee from NC State University, who discusses the impact of temperature stress on queen honey bee quality. This is followed by our 5 Minute Management section, where Jamie and Amy discuss the different types of foundation. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- Have there been any research to show that red lights in the hive control small hive beetle?
- Are there any scientific studies concerning the claim that pollen present in raw honey can relieve allergy symptoms?
- Have there been any studies regarding drone numbers near commercial queen-mating yards vs. drone numbers in a similar ecosystem without mating nucs?
- Are there recommendations for the number of drone source colonies per number of mating nucs in an area?
Notes and additional resources
Alison McAfee: https://cals.ncsu.edu/entomology-and-plant-pathology/people/amcafee/
Vulnerability of honey bee queens to heat-induced loss of fertility: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-020-0493-x?utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=commission_junction&utm_campaign=3_nsn6445_deeplink_PID100011630&utm_content=deeplink
Beekeeping Equipment: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/beekeeping-equipment/
Small Hive Beetle: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in854
Honey and Health: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/osceolaco/2018/06/06/honey/
Honey Bee Mating Biology: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/24,-December-2015,-Mating-Biology,-low-res.pdf
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Episode 42: Introducing a New Format & Discussing Pesticides
In today’s episode, we are joined by Ben Powell, apiculture and pollinator protection specialist from Clemson University, who will be discussing pesticides and their impacts on honey bees. Next, Jamie has 5 minutes to break down today’s management topic: properly storing unused equipment. We will end today’s episode with everybody’s favorite question and answer segment, Stump the Chump.
Q&A
- Most people are constrained by space- in an ideal world, what would be the ultimate distance between hives to mitigate disease transmission, robbing and drifting?
- My colonies of Russian strains dramatically shut down on brood and size when pollen and nectar sources are slow. What causes this colony size decrease?
- Can a laying queen immediately be placed into a queen-less colony?
Notes and additional resources
Ben Powell: https://www.clemson.edu/cafls/faculty_staff/profiles/bpowel2
South Carolina State Beekeepers Association: https://scstatebeekeepers.com/
Minimizing Honey Bee Exposure to Pesticides: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1027
Mosquito Control and Beekeepers: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in813
Protecting Bees and Other Pollinators from Pesticides: https://www.epa.gov/pollinator-protection
Robbing behavior: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1064
Bee Pest Management: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_bee_ipm
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Episode 41: Honey Bee Pheromones and How to Provide Extension Program Feedback
In this episode, Amy and Jamie will dedicate an entire segment to how you, our listeners, can help us improve this podcast; but first, we will be joined by Dr. Victoria Soroker who will be discussing pheromonal communication in honey bees. Finally, we end with everyone’s favorite game show, Stump the Chump.
Q&A
- How do you differentiate between uncapped honey not ready for harvest and uncapped honey that is ready?
- What is it about the taste of honey that tells you it has fermented?
- Is honey considered a liquid or solid in the mail?
Notes and additional resources
Dr. Victoria Soroker: https://www.agri.gov.il/people/767.aspx
Olfaction as a Target for Control of Varroa: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333156122_Olfaction_as_a_Target_for_Control_of_Honeybee_Parasite_Mite_Varroa_destructor
COLOSS: https://coloss.org/
Bottling, Labeling and Selling Honey in Florida: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in918
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Episode 40: Pesticide Applicator Training & Viruses, Bacteria, and Fungal Pathogens
In today’s episode we will be interviewing Dr. Andony Melathopoulos from Oregon State University who will discuss pesticide applicator training. We will follow that with a segment where Amy and Jamie discuss honey bee viruses, bacteria and fungal pathogens. We end with Q&A.
Q&A
- By the end of October, why does my hive dwindle down to a handful of bees?
- Do Slovenian and top-bar constructions offer an advantage from an inspection standpoint?
- One of my 40 hives is being robbed heavily. What do I need to do?
Notes and additional resources
Andony Melathopoulos:https://agsci.oregonstate.edu/users/andony-melathopoulos
Minimizing honey bee exposure to pesticides: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1027
Protecting bees and other pollinators from pesticides: https://www.epa.gov/pollinator-protection
Robbing behavior in honey bees: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1064
Biotic stressors of honey bee colonies:
Diseases and pests of the honey bee:
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/AA09000-Pests-and-Diseases.pdf
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Episode 39: USDA Honey Bee Lab in Baton Rouge & World Honey Bee Health
In this episode we will be interviewing Dr. Mike Simone-Finstrom, acting research leader at the USDA honey bee breeding, genetics, and physiology lab in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. We will follow that by interviewing our very own, Dr. Humberto Boncristiani, from the HBREL on the World Honey Bee Health project. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- Will an unmated queen leave with a swarm?
- Is it safe to use bamboo to make equipment for honey bees?
- Is a stinger both an ovipositor and a stinger, or does something change?
Notes and additional resources
Mike Simone-Finstrom:https://www.ars.usda.gov/southeast-area/baton-rouge-la/honeybeelab/people/mike-simone-finstrom
Russian Honey Bee Breeders Association: http://www.russianbreeder.org/
HumbertoBoncristiani:http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/about-us/people/
World Honey Bee Health: http://worldhoneybeehealth.com/
Swarm Control for Managed Beehives: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in970
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Episode 38: Hive on Public Land and How Honey Bees Choose New Sites
In this episode, we are joined by Eric Silva, a consultant for the American Honey Producers Association who will be talking about keeping honey bee colonies on public land. Then, we will interview Dr. Tom Seeley, a professor at Cornell University and world expert on honey bee swarm biology, who will be discussing how honey bees choose nest sites. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- How do I know if where I live is a good place for making honey?
- Why do four of my hives consistently have more Varroa than the others, despite receiving the same treatment?
- Do queen excluders cause bees to die more quickly? Why do some people call them "honey excluders"?
Notes and additional resources
American Honey Producers Association: https://www.ahpanet.com/
Thomas Seeley:https://nbb.cornell.edu/thomas-seeley
Thomas D. Seeley Website: http://pages.nbb.cornell.edu/seeley.shtml
The Lives of Bees, Dr. Tom Seeley: https://www.amazon.com/Lives-Bees-Untold-Story-Honey/dp/0691166765
Honeybee Democracy, Dr. Tom Seeley: https://www.amazon.com/Honeybee-Democracy-Thomas-D-Seeley/dp/0691147213
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Episode 37: History of the Honey Industry & Arthropod Invaders
In this episode, we are joined by Doug McGinnis, former owner of Tropical Blossom Honey, who is an expert on the history of the honey industry and importing and exporting honey. Then, Amy will interview Jamie on arthropod invaders in honey bee colonies. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- How do you limit the growth of a colony?
- When should I add a honey super in Florida during fall?
- Is it possible to pay for a type of honey bee that has traits which can reduce the need to treat for Varroa?
Notes and additional resources
Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA): https://www.susta.org/
Bottling, Labeling, and Selling Honey in Florida: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in918
Diseases and Pests of the Honey Bee: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/media/entnemdeptifasufledu/honeybee/pdfs/AA09000-Pests-and-Diseases.pdf
Florida Beekeeping Management Calendar: https://www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Bureaus-and-Services/Office-Locations/Apiary-Inspector-Directory
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Episode 36: Drone Congregation Areas & Queen Bee Production in Europe
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Ashley Mortenson from Plant and Food Research in New Zealand, who will be talking about drone congregation areas. Then we will interview Dr. Raffaele Dall’Olio, an independent honey bee research and extension specialist in Italy, who will be discussing queen bee production in Europe. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- What is the significant of the three honeycomb pattern on your logo?
- Why don't we hear more about essential oils to assist with diseases, Varroa, or small hive beetle?
- Do drones have the ability to produce wax? Do they have wax glands?
Notes and additional resources
Segment 1
Ashley Mortenson Bio: https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/2029829747-Ashley-N-Mortensen
Photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/oHVDNbDyXr8GDHNn8
NZ Plant and Food Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantandfood/
NZ Plant and Food Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/plantandfood
NZ Plant and Food Twitter: https://twitter.com/plantandfood
Varroa on drones at DCA’s: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00436-018-6035-z
Apis mellifera scutellata drones at regional mating areas: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0161331
Segment 2
Dr. Raffaele Dall'Olio: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Raffaele_DallOlio
Dr. Raffaele Dall’Olio: https://coloss.org/profile/913/
Bee Breed: www.BeeBreed.eu
Effects of shipping on queen quality: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340045709_Effect_of_shipping_boxes_attendant_bees_and_temperature_on_honey_bee_queen_sperm_quality_Apis_mellifera
International Honey Bee Breeding Network: https://ihbbn.org/
COLOSS: http://coloss.org/what-we-do/
Supressed mite reproduction (SMR) explained by the behaviour of adult bees: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00218839.2005.11101141
Locally adapted honey bee breeding: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/335777659_IHBBN_reducing_colony_losses_by_breeding_locally_adapted_honey_bees
Impacts of neonicotinoids on queens: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283955459_Field_assessment_of_impacts_of_different_neonicotinoids_on_honey_bee_queens_and_drones
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Episode 35: Natural Varroa-Resistant Honey Bees and Small Hive Beetles
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Steve Martin, a professor from the University of Salford in the United Kingdom, who will be discussing his research on natural varroa-resistant honey bees. This will be followed by a segment where Cameron interviews Jamie, on small hive beetles. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- When do queen bees and nurse bees sleep or rest? How do bees tell the difference between night and day if it's dark in the hive?
- Are there winter bees in the south? What makes a winter bee develop differently in the north versus the south?
- Have direct-fed probiotics been studied for Nosema control?
Notes and additional resources
BBKA News - Natural Varroa-Resistant Honey Bees: https://www.bbka.org.uk/shop/bbka-special-edition-natural-varroa-resistant-honey-bees-new
Varroa destructor reproduction and cell re-capping in mite-resistant Apis mellifera populations: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13592-019-00721-9
Small Hive Beetle Resources: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/pest-and-disease-resources/small-hive-beetles
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Episode 34: Drone Congregation Areas and Nosema
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Ben Oldroyd, a professor from the University of Sydney in Australia, who will be discussing his new research on the use of drones at drone congregation areas to estimate the density of wild honey bee colonies. This will be followed by an interview with Dr. Cameron Jack from the University of Florida, who is an expert on Nosema. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- Is it wrong to install honey supers on a colony during mite treatment?
- I've tried the Demaree method, but the bees keep filling back in the empty brood frames of honey so I end up with half-filled frames and then nothing to return down to the brood chamber. Is there a way to prevent this?
- When working Africanized bees, people will breathe through a 50ft tube to avoid producing carbon dioxide so that the bees don't know they're coming. This is common?
Notes and additional resources
Dr. Benjamin P. Oldroyd Publications
Assessing the Density of Honey Bee Colonies at Ecosystem Scales
Estimating the density of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies
The density of feral honey bee colonies in South East Australia
Swarm Control for Managed Beehives: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in970
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Episode 33: Varroa Sensitive Hygiene & Various Beekeeping Climates
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jeff Harris from Mississippi State University, an expert on Varroa Sensitive Hygiene traits. This is followed by a segment where Dr. Ellis and Amy discuss overwintering colonies in different climates. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- Has there been any research on combining two or more different chemical treatments at the same time to treat Varroa?
- If the daughter of a non-local queen has survived a season, does that mean she's been adapted to the colony?
- Are there more than one type of Varroa? Do they look the same?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 32: Generational & Commercial Beekeeping
In this episode, we are joined by Logan Cutts to talk about his experience as a fifth-generation beekeeper. This is followed by a segment where Dr. Ellis and Amy discuss the commercial beekeeping industry. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- What's the deal with Manuka honey? Why is it so fancy, and why do people want it?
- Should we keep bees in the sun or the shade? Where is the best placement, and should the entrances be faced in a certain direction?
- Can bees survive in observation hives? Does the placement of these hives matter?
Notes and additional resources
Industry Updates for Florida Beekeepers
Economic Value of Commercial Beekeeping
Getting to Know Commercial Beekeepers
Revenue Sources for a Commercial Beekeeping Operation in the Pacific Northwest
Operational Equipment Expenses for a Commercial Beekeeping Operation in the Pacific Northwest
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Episode 31: Scout Bees & Bee Stings
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Juliana Rangel to talk about scout bees. This is followed by a segment where Dr. Ellis and Amy discuss bee stings. We end this episode with Q&A.
Q&A
- Can sugar water go bad?
- Do we remove supers to prevent amitraz contamination?
- When a commercial beekeeper is loading a pallet of hives, what are the bees doing?
Notes and additional resources
Bee Stings:
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Episode 30: 2019-2020 BIP Colony Loss Survey and Queen Bees
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Geoff Williams to discuss the 2020 Bee Informed Partnership (BIP) preliminary survey. Then Amy and Jamie talk about queen bees.
Q&A
- When removing supers, should burr comb be melted and applied to frames to encourage honey bees to building into that super?
- What are "zom-bees"?
- I heard foundationless frames made smaller work bees, which led to less Varroa. Is this true?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 29: Quality Queens and the Top Honey Bee Stressors
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. David Tarpy to learn what it means to have quality queen bees and about his Queen and Disease Clinic at North Carolina State University. Then Amy and Jamie discuss the biggest stressors that honey bee colonies face according to the Bee Informed Partnership. We end with a Q&A.
Q&A
- I harvested my honey and there are a lot of bubbles. Is this OK or should I wait before putting a lid on it?
- What kind of hive stand is the best?
- Would it be OK if I got rid of deeps and used a different size hive box?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 28: Queen Polyandry and the Label is the Law
In this episode we speak with Dr. Keith Delaplane about queen mating behavior. For the second segment, Dr. Ellis and Amy discuss the role of labels and how to interpret them, and we finish up with Q&A.
Q&A
- Is there a way to control mold in a hive?
- How can you tell the difference between wax moths and small hive beetle larva?
- How do you deal with high moisture content in your honey?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 27: Black Bee Honey
In this episode we speak to Black Bee Honey, a non-profit organization aiming to turn ‘food deserts to food oases,’ and encourage young entrepreneurs. The first segment describes how they provide youth the opportunity to learn about entrepreneurship. In the second segment, we go more in depth into how this program was developed and how you can begin one in your area.
Q&A
- Is honey safe to eat when pregnant? Can bacteria in honey cause botulism? Does the bacteria affect the bees?
- Why do queens have different colored abdomens?
- Why do bees sometimes exhibit behavior or wash boarding?
Notes and additional resources
Black Bee Honey
https://www.blackbeehoneyhq.com/Home
https://www.blackbeehoneyhq.com/About-PKZ
Q&A resources
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Episode 26: Women in Beekeeping
In this episode we are joined by Dr. Tammy Potter to discuss the role of women in beekeeping. Then we speak with Dr. Jennifer Tsuruda about what it means to be an Extension Specialist, her programs in Tennessee, and some emerging topics in the honey bee world.
Q&A
- When moving a hive, is it true that you need to move them 'two feet a day or two miles away'?
- How can we incorprate integrated pest management when using a top bar hive?
- Are there any essential oils we should not be using in the hive that attract small hive beetle?
Notes and additional resources
Tammy Potter:
https://www.beeculture.com/tammy-horn-potter/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bees-in-america-tammy-horn/1100312731
https://www.amazon.com/Flower-Power-Establishing-Pollinator-Habitat/dp/187807556X
https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/about-the-coalition/
https://www.projectapism.org/pam-board-of-directors.html
https://www.easternapiculture.org/about-eas/eas-contacts.html
Jennifer Tsuruda:
https://epp.tennessee.edu/people/directory/dr-jennifer-tsuruda/
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Episode 25: Queen 'Duets' and the Story of Honey Bee History
In this episode we discuss recent research conducted by lead scientist, Dr. Martin Bencsik, who studied honey bee queen ’duets’. Then we hear from Dr. Malcolm Sanford, professor emeritus from the University of Florida, about his research and career experiences.
Q&A
- What does it mean when beekeepers are 'treatment free'?
- Is Amdro safe to use around hives?
- How many dead bees is enough to cause concern?
Notes and additional resources
Dr. Martin Bencsik:https://www.ntu.ac.uk/staff-profiles/science-technology/martin-bencsik
Queen bees ‘toot’ to instruct colony to keep them safe
Dr. Malcolm Sanford: http://apisenterprises.com/vita.htm
Apis Enterprises: http://apisenterprises.com/apis_ent.htm
Apis Information Resource News: https://beekeep.info/apis-newsletter
What Scientists and Beekeepers Want: https://beekeep.info/a-treatise-on-modern-honey-bee-management/bee-research-what-scientists-and-beekeepers-want/
The State of Bee Science: http://apisenterprises.com/papers_htm/BC2006/The%20State%20of%20Bee%20Research.htm
Video with Humberto: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzMvo1IUOsOfUrz-PIKi7d9gKKUA6NWP9
Books for Malcolm T. Sanford: https://www.workman.com/authors/malcolm-t-sanford
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Episode 24: BeeMD and Honey Labeling Guidelines
In this episode we discuss BeeMD with Dr. Dewey Caron and Dr. Debbie Delaney. Then we hear from Chris Hiatt, the vice president of the American Honey Producers Association (AHPA) to discuss AHPA, some of their initiatives, including a hot topic in the commercial beekeeping industry: honey labeling guidelines.
Q&A
- Is there a resistance to amitraz?
- What does it mean when beekeepers talk about mite resistance or Varroa sensitivity?
- Where would someone find queens who are resistant to certain problems?
Notes and additional resources
BeeMD: http://www.thebeemd.com/
Dewey Caron:http://blogs.oregonstate.edu/pollinationpodcast/2017/10/23/dr-dewey-m-caron/
Debbie Delaney:https://www.udel.edu/canr/departments/entomology-and-wildlife-ecology/faculty-staff/debbie-delaney/
American Honey Producers Association (AHPA): https://www.ahpanet.com/about-ahpa
AHPA App: https://www.ahpanet.com/latest-news
Chris Hiatt: https://www.ahpanet.com/officers-executive-board
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Episode 23: Best Management Practices and Factors That Determine a Worker vs a Queen
In this episode we discuss the five best and worst commercial beekeeping management practices with Dan Aruell and Matt Hoepfinger from the Bee Informed Partnership (BIP). Then we hear from Dr. Julia Bowsher, to learn about her research on the factors that determine whether a female larvae will become a worker or queen bee.
Q&A
- I have a hive with screen bottom boards. I coat the plastic bottom boards with oil to collect 'all the good stuff'. I've heard of others who use diatomaceous earth. What are the pros and cons of diatomaceous earth?
- How does someone recognize forage resources around them and are there resources for determing what kind of forage is around you? Are there quantitative measures?
Notes and additional resources
Bee Informed Partnership (BIP) https://beeinformed.org/about/
Dan and Matt’s Bio: https://beeinformed.org/about/staff/
Julia Bowsher Lab Page:https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/~jbowsher/BowsherLab/Home.html
Royal Jelly Does Not A Queen Make https://www.insidescience.org/news/royal-jelly-does-not-queen-make
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Episode 22: Blue Calamintha and ‘Found in Translation’
In this episode we discuss the re-discovery of the blue calamintha bee with Dr. Chase Kimmel. Then we hear from Dr. Jay Evans, to learn about his column, ‘Found in Translation’.
Q&A
- How do you deal with bull ants?
- I just installed a package of bees into a new hive, the queen is in her cage with a sugar cork. The bees are clustering on the outside of the nest entrance and the cluster is getting bigger. What should I do?
- What qualifies someone as a beginner, intermediate, or advanced beekeeper?
Notes and additional resources
Blue calamintha bee:
https://www.prevention.com/life/a32613640/rare-blue-calamintha-bees-florida/
https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/daniels-lab/chase-kimmel/
Additional Information on Ants:
Two Bees in a Podcast: Even Though I'm an Entomologist, I'm Not an "Ant"omologist
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Episode 21: USDA Research Labs and State Beekeeping Associations
In this episode we hear from Dr. Jay Evans, and learn about the role of USDA Bee Research Laboratories and what they do for beekeepers. This is followed by a discussion with Jennifer Holmes, the Florida State Beekeepers Association president, on state beekeeper associations.
Q&A
- After I work my bees, I smell like smoke the rest of the day. Is there a trick to removing smoke?
- When you first receive a package, I've been told that I should seal the entrance for the first day or two, is this true?
- Several times in a few weeks, I've seen small swarms head out over water and then return. When we captured the swarm, there was no queen, but the bees began to return to their hive. Have you seen this behavior before?
Notes and additional resources
Baton Rouge, LA :
https://www.ars.usda.gov/southeast-area/baton-rouge-la/honeybeelab/
Beltsville, MD:
Logan, UT:
Tucson, AZ:
https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/tucson-az/carl-hayden-bee-research-center/
State Beekeeper Associations
https://flstatebeekeepers.com/
https://www.abfnet.org/general/custom.asp?page=florida
National, regional, and state associations:
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Episode 20: The Role of Florida Farm Bureau Federation and Mosquito Control
In this episode we discuss the role of Florida Farm Bureau Federation and their relationship with apiculture. In the second segment of this podcast episode, we speak with Caitlin Gill from the Florida Department of Agriculture, about mosquito control for beekeepers.
Q&A
- What are things that beekeepers can do to prevent mosquitoes?
- What ratio do you recommend for sugar water, and why?
- I have a split that didn't re-queen. I added a new frame of eggs, there is an empty queen cell but no sign of her. It is poorly populated... is it a loss?
Notes and additional resources
Florida Farm Bureau Federation
Mosquito Control
https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Mosquito-Control
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in813
http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/entnemdept/2017/09/22/mosquito-control-florida-beekeepers/
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Episode 19: Social Immunity and Swarms
In this episode we are joined by Distinguished McKnight Professor, Dr. Marla Spivak, to learn about social immunity. Amy and Jamie have a discussion on swarms, and we wrap up with Q&A.
Q&A
- How soon should I put a honey super on a newly split ten frame hive?
- Can you tell us about treating for mites prophylactically?
- Are supers safe to reuse if they have tested positive for European foulbrood in the past?
Notes and additional resources
European Foulbrood
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1272
https://beeinformed.org/2013/04/05/european-foulbrood-efb-identification/
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Episode 18: Honey Bee Friendly Landscaping and Equipment Tips and Tricks
In this episode we are joined by UF IFAS Extension Lake County Agent, Brooke Moffis, to learn about landscaping for bees. We wrap up this episode with a discussion on commonly asked question about specific beekeeping equipment such as woodenware and bottom boards.
Q&A
- How did beetles find my hive only hours after installing them?
- What are small cell foundations?
- What is the best way to move frames in a hive without crushing the queen?
Notes and additional resources
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Asian Giant Hornet Special: Truths and Myths about Vespa mandarinia
In this episode we are joined by Chris Looney, Entomologist for the Washington State Department of Agriculture, who discusses the current situation surrounding the Asian giant hornet.
Notes and additional resources
Washington State Department of Agriculture
Asian Giant Hornet Information
Vespa mandarinia Featured Creatures
Other resources
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Episode 17: Beekeeping in Barbados and a Look into the Use of Oxalic Acid
In this episode we are joined by David Small, who discusses his experiences and knowledge of beekeeping in the Caribbean and how Varroa have affected the industry. We wrap up this episode with Dr. Cameron Jack, who’s segment focuses on the use of oxalic acid as a pest management tool.
Q&A
- Should you select and remove drones?
- Do drones take resources away from the larvae?
- Can you get different sizes of drone within your colony?
Notes and additional resources
Varroa
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/pest-and-disease-resources/varroa/
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in855
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5vVrAy6CEU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6HyBbs9454&feature=youtu.be
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Episode 16: When You Have Competition, It Raises the Quality of a Product
In this episode we are joined by Michael Young, who discusses Honey Judging, and we wrap up Bill Kern's pest series with a conversation about miscellaneous pests.
Q&A
- What are books and resources for beekeepers?
- Can you combine frames from two hives to make one walkaway split?
Notes and additional resources
Michael Young
Jamie's References
Honey Bees and Beekeeping: A Year in the Life of an Apiary
Storey's Guide to Keeping Bees
Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping
The Backyard Beekeeper: An Absolute Beginner's Guide to Keeping Bees in Your Yard and Garden
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COVID-19 Special: Updates on the Beekeeping Industry
In this very special episode, we discuss the effects of COVID-19 on beekeepers and how it connects with our food system. We are joined by Jason Mathis from Florida Farm Bureau, and Tony Hogg who is a beekeeper and the chair of the Apiary Advisory committee for the Florida Farm Bureau.
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 15: Popular Beekeeping Journals
In this episode we discuss available resources and beekeeping journals by editors around the country: Eugene Makovec, the editor of American Bee Journal, and Jerry Hayes, the editor of Bee Culture (who has a little surprise for our podcast listeners!).
Q&A
- Why doesn’t the Africanized honey bee gene pool get watered down?
- Is checking a hive once a week (or more) bad for the colony?
- What to do about swarms?
Notes and additional resources
Eugene Makovec: American Bee Journal
Jerry Hayes: Bee Culture
Differences Between European and African Honey Bees
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Episode 14: Once a Bear Finds an Apiary, It Will Keep Going Back
We are accompanied by Sarah Red-Laird, the founder and executive director of The Bee Girl Organization, to talk about bee nutrition, forage, and regenerative agriculture, we will be continuing our Apiary Pest discussion with Bill Kern talking about bears, and Q&A.
Q&A
- Should you bottom super or top super? If you bottom super, what’s the order to do that?
- Is there any information on Azaleas and honey bees?
- I have honey bees in my tree. What can I do to remove them?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 13: Top 10 Tips for Beekeepers
In this episode, Dave Westervelt discusses the history of beekeeping, we continue our pest series with Dr. Kern discussing wasps, and Dr. Ellis lists his top ten tips for beekeepers.
Q&A
- Can you smoke bees too much?
- How does the hive keep a balance between drones and workers?
- Can the queen lay different types of eggs?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 12: Scientifically Rigorous Information
Interviews with key members of the International Bee Research Association, including Professor Dr. William Kirk, discussing the history of IBRA, Dr. Robert Brodschneider, the editor of the journal Bee World, and Dr. Maria Bouga, the editor of the Journal of Apicultural Research. Jamie and Cameron include a synopsis of what it means to publish academic research.
Q&A
- Why should we care about the honey bee gut?
- What are super sisters?
- What is the difference between orientation flights, swarming, and robbing?
Notes and additional resources
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Episode 11: Even Though I'm an Entomologist, I'm Not an “Ant”omologist
An interview with 2020 American Honey Princess, Sydnie Paulsrud, about the American Beekeeping Federation and the Honey Queen Program, followed by Bill Kern beginning our “Pests in the Apiary” series with a discussion about ants, and Q&A.
Q&A
- How many hives are needed per acre in almond pollination?
- Are top bar hives a better choice for bee health?
- When should a beekeeper be worried about hive beetles?
Notes and additional resources
Honey Queen Program and Brochures
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Episode 10: Honey Bees Are Animals and They Deserve to Be in Good Health
An interview with Dr. Meghan Milbrath about European foulbrood, followed by a discussion with Dr. Milbrath about Honey Bee Treatments, Dr. Bill Kern talks about Africanized Honey Bees, and we finish with Q&A.
Q&A
- I treated my colonies for Varroa, and about two months afterward, I started seeing Varroa again and my bees had deformed wing virus. What happened?
- Do honey bees dislike bananas?
- Why do you have to pay for bee removal?
Notes and additional resources
European Foul Brood
Milbrath: https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/meghan_milbrath
EFB Bee Informed Partnership: https://beeinformed.org/2013/04/05/european-foulbrood-efb-identification/
European Foulbrood: A Bacterial Disease Affecting Honey Bee Brood: https://impact.extension.org/extension-articles/Treatment
Diagnosis of Honey Bee Diseases: https://www.beelab.umn.edu/sites/beelab.umn.edu/files/_2016_disease_pdf_version_s.pdfAfricanized Honey Bees
Kern: https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/william-kern/
African Honey Bee, Africanized Honey Bee, Killer Bee, Apis mellifera scutellata Lepeletier: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in790
Differences Between European and African Honey Bees: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in784 -
Episode 9: The First Responders in Bee Health Issues
A discussion with the Florida Assistant Bureau Chief of Apiary Inspection, Brandi Stanford, an interview with pollination ecology expert, Dr. Rachel Mallinger, and Q&A.
Q&A
- Logan Cutts wants to know, how many retweets until you will let him do a bee-beard at Bee College?
- How long can mites survive after the colony dies?
- How many mites can be eliminated with a brood break?
- Do some people still consider honey bees an invasive species?
Notes and additional resources
Rules and Regulations: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Bees-Apiary/Apiary-Inspection
Mallinger Lab: http://www.rachelmallinger.com/
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Episode 8: Commercial Beekeeping… One Day at a Time, One Issue at a Time
An interview with Dr. Josette Lewis with the Almond Board of California, a discussion with Sarah Stern, a commercial beekeeper/co-owner of Concord Farms about her life as a commercial beekeeper, and Q&A.
Q&A
- Do commercial beekeepers do preventative treatments for AFB?
- What government programs are available to help commercial beekeepers in the event of heavy colony losses?
- Is theft a problem in your operation?
- Are you concerned about pests and pathogens when transporting bees?
Notes and additional resources
Almond Board of California: https://www.almonds.com/
Concord Farms Bees: https://www.concordfarmsbees.com/
Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/
Honey Bee Protection in Florida: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Bees-Apiary/Honey-Bee-Protection-in-Florida
Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-raised Fish (ELAP): https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-program/emergency-assist-for-livestock-honey-bees-fish/index
Beekeepers hit hard by thefts of hives: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/2019/05/bee-thieves-cost-beekeepers-thousands/
Catch the Buzz- Almond Pollination Colonies: https://www.beeculture.com/catch-the-buzz-almond-pollination-colonies-being-stolen-again-know-your-beekeeper-mark-your-hives-hide-your-hives/
Identification and Treatment of European Foulbrood in Honey Bee Colonies: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1272
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Episode 7: Risk Is Simply the Product of Multiplying Toxicity and Exposure
An interview with Dr. Judy Wu-Smart, Extension & Research Entomologist University of Nebraska-Lincoln, on her pesticide research, Jamie and Amy discuss pesticide risk and what that really means, and Q&A.
Q&A
- Is there anything interesting about the bees’ knees?
- Do commercial beekeepers do preventative treatments for AFB, and should backyard beekeepers be doing it?
- Are heat treatments for mites effective?
- What methods do you recommend to prevent and recover from heavy colony losses, such as winter losses?
Notes and additional resources
Judy Wu-Smart: https://entomology.unl.edu/faculty/dr-judy-wu-smart
UF HBREL Pesticides: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/pesticides/
Environmental Protection Agency: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides
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Episode 6: If Your Goal Is to Keep Your Bees Alive
An interview with Randy Oliver about monitoring Varroa destructor, a discussion about the Bee Informed Partnership with Anne Marie Fauvel and Nathalie Steinhauer, and Q&A.
Q&A
- What do you do if you want to keep bees but your HOA doesn’t allow it?
- What do you recommend about buying bees online?
- What’s the proper balance of reading and researching versus hands-on experience and learning as you go?
Notes and additional resources
Randy Oliver: http://scientificbeekeeping.com/
Varroa Information: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/pest-and-disease-resources/varroa/
Bee Informed Partnership: https://beeinformed.org/
Honey Bee Biology: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/honey-bee-biology/
Honey Bee Management: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/management/
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Episode 5: Species Without Natural Enemies
What to do about honey bee dead-outs with Dr. Humberto Boncristiani, a discussion on invasive species with Dr. Jim Cuda, and Q&A.
Q&A
- We are trying to save the bees, but what about wasps and yellow jackets?
- Is it appropriate to include frames of wax in a bait hive when trying to attract a swarm?
- Should you destroy queen cells in thriving colonies?
Notes and additional resources
HBREL Honey Bee Husbandry Research: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/research/honey-bee-husbandry/
HBREL Beekeeping Equipment: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/beekeeping-equipment/
James P. Cuda:http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/people-directory/james-cuda/
Carey Minteer: https://irrec.ifas.ufl.edu/minteer-/
What is happening with the Brazilian Peppertree: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/entnemdept/2019/09/11/what-is-happening-with-the-brazilian-peppertree-schinus-terebinthifolia-insect-release/
Brazilian peppertree thrips: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/BENEFICIAL/Pseudophilothrips_ichini.html
Yellow Brazilian peppertree leaf-galler: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/Calophya_latiforceps.htm
Classical Biological Control of Brazilian Peppertree in Florida: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/IN/IN11400.pdf
How Scientists Obtain Approval to Release Organisms for Classical Biological Control of Invasive Weeds: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/IN/IN60700.pdf
Brazilian Peppertree Seed Chalcid, Megastigmus transvaalensis: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/IN/IN45300.pdf
Brazilian Peppertree Control: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/AA/AA21900.pdf
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Episode 4: What It Takes to Provide Purposeful Education
A summary of Extension and Research, and an interview with Dr. Meghan Milbrath from Michigan State University discussing her 50/50 Research/Extension appointment.
Q&A
- How did you (Dr. Jamie Ellis) get into entomology?
- What are the best ingredients to put into a smoker to calm bees?
Notes and additional resources
Land-Grant University Website Directory: https://nifa.usda.gov/land-grant-colleges-and-universities-partner-website-directory
HBREL Extension: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/extension/
UF/IFAS Extension: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/
HBREL Research: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/research/
HBREL Research Publications: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/research/honey-bee-husbandry/publications-by-topic/
Dr. Meghan Milbrath: https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/meghan_milbrath
The Sand Hill: http://www.sandhillbees.com/
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Episode 3: The Mite Is Free to Move About the Cabin
A general overview of Varroa, honey bee pollen and nutrition, Master Beekeepers Programs, and Q&As.
Q&A
- Why might you see bees in your landscape one year, but suddenly the next year they are gone?
- What’s really going on when bees do the waggle dance?
- What happens if the queen dies during swarming?
- When do bees swarm?
Notes and additional resources
Varroa, Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in855
Nutrition and Bee Plants: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/beekeeper-resources/nutrition-and-bee-plants/
UF IFAS Master Beekeeper Program: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/extension/events-and-activities/master-beekeeper-program/
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Episode 2: The UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory
Learn about the HBREL, UF Instructional Programs, and what it means to have a Healthy Colony.
Q&A
- What about ants?
- What’s with worker bees laying eggs?
- Do we have African bees here?
- Should we be scared of having them?
Notes and additional resources
Instruction: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/instruction/
Cameron Jack: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/about-us/people/cameron-jack/
William Kern: https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/william-kern/
EDIS Ant Control in the Apiary: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1181
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Episode 1: Introduction to the UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab
Meet your “Two Bees in a Podcast” hosts, learn about their positions and experiences, find out more about what to expect from this podcast, and how you can be more involved!
Q&A
- What do you think about the Flow Hive?
- Can you use Oxalic acid treatment on the frames?
- What is parasitic mite syndrome?
- How effective are beetle blasters and dryer sheets?
- How often should check beetle traps or blasters?
