January 18, 2026

In 2012, Ontario beekeepers experienced an unprecedented surge in honeybee fatalities following the planting of corn treated with neonicotinoid pesticides. Investigations by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency suggested that agricultural dust from air-seeders likely contaminated the environment, as high levels of clothianidin were found in dead bee samples. Affected apiarists observed devastating symptoms like colony collapse, queen failure, and contaminated…

Beekeepers often struggle to maneuver heavy honey supers due to the shallow, inadequate finger grips found on standard equipment. To address this ergonomic challenge, the author recommends installing wooden cleat handles made from pine to provide a more secure and comfortable hold. These additions should be carefully positioned to avoid interfering with the hive lid and are best attached with…

This text examines the various threats to honey bee health, focusing specifically on the primary roles that parasitic mites and chemical exposure play in colony decline. While varroa mites are identified as the leading cause of winter mortality, the author emphasizes that insecticides pose a significant secondary risk due to their intentional design to eliminate insects. Beekeepers and farmers are…

In this presentation, Chris Radimer explores the global rise of organized honey bee theft, noting how lucrative industries like almond pollination and Manuka honey have invited criminal activity. While Ontario has not yet reached the crisis levels seen in Europe or the United States, Radimer warns that the local industry must prepare for increasing risks as the value of colonies…

This text evaluates three primary liquids used to track varroa mite infestations within honeybee colonies: alcohol, soapy water, and windshield washer fluid. While 70% alcohol is traditionally favored for its speed and precision, it unfortunately results in the death of the sampled bees. In contrast, soapy water emerges as a cost-effective and humane alternative that preserves the bees' lives, though…