Small Hive Beetle Advisory

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has positively identified small hive beetle (SHB) in locations in Essex County. This is the first time this pest has been found in Ontario.

Surveillance activities continue. To date, no SHB has been found outside Essex County. OMAFRA staff are expanding surveillance activities in border areas, including Lambton and Kent Counties, as well as in the Niagara and Cornwall areas. Bee inspectors have received additional training in SHB recognition and biosecurity measures.

Beekeepers are encouraged to be alert for this new pest when inspecting their colonies. The ministry has prepared infosheets describing inspection procedures and treatment options (see links below). Should you suspect the presence of SHB in your colonies, please call OMAFRA's Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300.

SHB is capable of inflicting damage and additional stress on honey bee colonies depending upon the level of infestation and the overall health of the colony. SHB also adversely affects honey quality. It may not be known until spring if SHB has established itself in Ontario.

OMAFRA is aware of the implications that the discovery of this pest has to Ontario's beekeeping industry. We will be working closely with the beekeeping industry and other partners to address this challenge to the industry. We will continue to share information with the Ontario Beekeepers' Association and beekeepers as the situation evolves.

For additional information on small hive beetle:

• small hive beetle infosheet
• small hive beetle treatment recommendations infosheet
• 2010 Ontario recommendations for honey bee disease and mite control