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Wax moths pose a significant threat to beehives, particularly during winter when colonies are less active. These pests can cause extensive damage to combs, hive frames, and beeswax, leading to substantial losses for beekeepers. This article will explore the nature of wax moths, their impact on hives, and most importantly, how to effectively store empty frames during winter to prevent moth-related damage.
Understanding Wax Moths
Two types of wax moths commonly affect beehives: the Greater Wax Moth (Galleria mellonella) and the Lesser Wax Moth (Achroia grisella). The adult Greater Wax moth is characterized by its larger size, grayish-brown color, and distinct wing structure. Both species have a similar life cycle, beginning as eggs laid in crevices of the hive, and then hatching into larvae that feed on wax combs, pollen, and honey residues. The greater wax moth larvae can entrap newly formed adult bees with silken threads, causing issues such as bee mortality. Adult wax moths have a short lifespan during which they do not feed and rely on chemical pheromones to attract mates. The larvae create silken tunnels through the comb as they feed, eventually pupating and emerging as adult moths.
Signs of wax moth larvae infestation include:
- Silken threads or tunnels on combs
- Presence of larvae or adult moths
- Damaged or destroyed combs
- Fecal pellets on frame bottoms
- Webbing and tough white cocoons that wax moth larvae leave behind
Why Empty Honey Frames Are Vulnerable?
Empty frames are particularly susceptible to wax moth infestation during winter storage. Without the protection of an active bee colony, these frames become an ideal environment for wax moths to lay eggs and for wax moth larvae to thrive. Without the protection of active honey bees, these frames become an ideal environment for wax moths. The residual wax, pollen, and honey on the frames provide a perfect food source for developing larvae, which tunnel through combs and cause significant damage.
Preparing Frames for Storage
Before storing frames for winter, it's crucial to prepare them properly:
- Remove all frames from the hive
- Brush off any remaining bees
- Scrape away excess wax and propolis
- Remove any dead bees or debris
- Allow frames to air dry completely
Storage Methods to Prevent Wax Moth Damage
Wax moth damage is expected when the honey-extracted comb is stored in dark, warm, or poorly ventilated places. Unprotected, wet supers are highly attractive to wax moths. From experience, I have learned never to store freshly honey-extracted supers in tightly sealed trash bags, thinking that you have excluded all life stages of wax moths. Invariably, wax moth eggs or larvae show up unexpectedly in the equipment and the comb can be destroyed in a few weeks in a warm storage area. One exception is to freeze the comb, allowing the comb to thaw in a wax moth-free room till dry, then store the frames in tightly sealed bags.
On the other hand, maximum use of light and ventilation is recommended to control wax moths. Beekeepers who have only a few colonies can easily take advantage of these two physical factors. A very effective and economical method of moth control can be achieved by storing supers of comb or individual frames of comb by wire from the roof or rafters of a room or attic that has good light and ventilation (see photo). If wax moths have already become established and webbing is present in the comb, the use of light and ventilation options for wax moth control is not recommended.
Cold Treatment: minimum cold temperature storage time required to kill all life stages of wax moths in honey-extracted comb includes: 20ºF (-7ºC) for 4.5 hours, 10ºF (-12ºC) for three hours, or 5ºF (-15ºC) for two hours. Additional time should be given for equipment to reach the required minimum temperatures, especially in hot weather or large-capacity freezers. These temperature exposure periods must be increased to kill wax moth larvae in comb honey.
While freezing can kill wax moth larvae, it may not always kill wax moth eggs, so additional measures may be necessary. Wax moth development is accelerated at higher temperatures, so comb honey should be protected from this pest beginning immediately after harvest.
TIP: Take the frames that you want to save and place them in a freezer. After 24 hours take them out and place other ones.
Natural Preventive Measures
Implementing natural strategies to prevent wax moth infestations is not only eco-friendly but can also be highly effective. Removing wax moth cocoons is an important part of maintaining apiary hygiene and preventing infestations.
Maintaining Strong Colonies
Maintaining strong bee colonies is crucial to control wax moths. Strong colonies are better equipped to fend off pests and diseases. Preventive measures such as proper storage conditions, utilizing traps, and implementing physical control methods can significantly minimize damage from wax moths. Declining honey bee colonies are more susceptible to wax moth infestations, which often exploit already weakened or diseased colonies. Additionally, wax moth larvae can move to neighbouring honey bee colonies, posing a risk of infestation across apiaries.
Regular Hive Inspections
Regular hive inspections are essential for the health of honey bee colonies. These inspections help identify early signs of wax moth infestations, allowing beekeepers to take timely action. Inspections should also look for lesser wax moth larvae, which are smaller and often solitary compared to their greater counterparts. Weak or declining honey bee colonies are particularly vulnerable to wax moth larvae, which can cause significant damage and indicate underlying problems within the colony.
Best Practices for Frame Storage
Proper storage conditions are crucial for protecting frames from wax moths and maintaining their quality:
a) Temperature Control:
- Ideal storage temperature is between 40-50°F (4-10°C)
- Consistently cool temperatures slow moth activity and egg development
- Avoid fluctuating temperatures, which can lead to condensation
b) Humidity Management:
- Maintain relative humidity below 50% to prevent mold growth
- Use dehumidifiers in storage areas if necessary
- Place moisture-absorbing materials like silica gel packets in storage containers
c) Proper Stacking and Spacing:
- Stack frames vertically to allow air circulation
- Use spacers between frames to prevent direct contact
- Avoid overcrowding; leave room for air to circulate frame edges
d) Storage Containers:
- Use airtight plastic bins with secure lids
- For large-scale storage, consider using modified freezer units or climate-controlled rooms
e) Light Exposure:
- If possible, store frames in areas with some natural light
- Alternatively, use artificial lighting in storage areas (moths prefer darkness)
f) Regular Checks:
- Inspect stored frames at least monthly
- Look for signs of moth activity, mold, or other issues
- Rotate frames if necessary to ensure even exposure to conditions
g) Organization:
- Label containers with the date of storage and frame type
- Keep an inventory of stored frames for easy management
- Store newer frames separately from older ones
h) Cleaning Storage Area:
- Regularly clean and sanitize the storage area
- Remove any debris that could attract pests
- Use food-grade diatomaceous earth around storage areas as a natural pest deterrent
By implementing these detailed natural preventive measures and following best practices for frame storage, beekeepers can significantly reduce the risk of wax moth damage and ensure their equipment remains in excellent condition for the next season.
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