Sugar shake method
(Prof. Sammy Ramsey, University of Colorado)
- Take 300 bees (3/4 cup) from the brood frames, ensuring that the queen is not included
- Add 2 tablespoonfuls of icing sugar
- Roll gently for 1 minute
- Allow to settle for 5 minutes
- Invert the jar and shake vigorously to dislodge the mites
- Add one further tablespoonful of icing sugar and repeat steps 3-5
- Dissolve the sugar with some water leaving the mites floating
For further information see the Honey Bee Health Coalition.