Sticky Board with Screen - Varroa Trap

This sticky board can be used with or without the screen to monitor or diagnose a varroa infestation. If placed directly on the bottom board, the screen will be needed to keep the bees from the adhesive. When used in conjunction with a screened bottom board, the replacement sticky board can be used alone. The sticky board is conveniently printed with the grid lines to aid in determining the number of mites present.

Decisions on Varroa Mite control are based on the number of mites found on the Sticky Board. If mites are detected at low levels or not at all, treatment may be delayed or not required, resulting in fewer chemicals being applied in the hive, reduced chance of mites becoming resistant to the treatment chemicals, and less expense. If mites are present at low to moderate levels, treatment can be made so that honey production is maintained. Over-wintered colony losses will be diminished. Use the Sticky Board to sample at least 10% of hives in large apiaries or a minimum of 3 hives in smaller ones. Choose unusually large and small colonies and those at row ends. When to use: Varroa mite detection is best during periods of low brood rearing. Storage: Store Sticky Boards in cool conditions in the bag provided. Directions: Bring Sticky Boards to room temperature. Start at the unglued margin and carefully peel off the paper. In the field, ensure traps remain warm until paper is removed. Record on the Sticky Board the hive number and the date you are inserting it. If you are using a standard bottom board or pallet, place the screen (included in DC-680 Sticky Board with screen) over the sticky surface to keep the bees from sticking to the surface. Slide the unit through the entrance of the hive on the bottom board. Use thumb tacks if desired to keep the trap flat. Put an approved pesticide in the hive according to the pesticide label instructions. Remove the trap after 24 hours. Leaving the trap longer than 24 hours will result in a heavy buildup of hive debris, making it difficult to count the mites. Cover the sticky surface with clear plastic wrap.
Count the varroa mites on the trap.

In the spring

• If no mites are detected, remove the pesticide and test again in the fall.
• If mite levels are low (less than 100), treatment can
be delayed until fall.
• If mite levels are moderate (between 100-1,000),
remove any honey supers and treat as soon as
possible.
• If mite levels are high (over 1,000), remove any
honey supers and begin treatment immediately.

In the fall
• If any mites are detected, treat immediately.