Last fall during the dearth between the last blooms and the onset of winter, which now runs from late September through November (thank you, global warming), I fed my usual pollen substitute patties.  After a week or so, in one hive I noticed several worm-like grubs on the patty (which the bees ignored).  Eventually (getting older and slower), I realized they were small hive beetle larvae.  I've never seen SHB before in my hives and didn't think they would/could survive in this area, since winters are long with temps getting down to -15F/-26C or lower, so the frost line in the soil is quite deep.  I am at a loss to figure out how they got into the hive.  There was no sign of comb damage, so I don't think they were in there for very long.  Has anyone ever experienced an infestation coming from pollen patties?  I googled this one, but couldn't find anything on it, other than that SHB larvae will eat pollen patties.  And, I'm not looking to blame a manufacturer or supplier; just trying to figure out what the heck happened.

Thanks,

Bill
Claremont, NH US

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