Mike said:
In a phone conversation with Tony, last week, he reported colonies with 70 -
80% infestation.

Another beekeeper cought "asleep at the wheel". 70-80%  infestation does not
happen fast!

>Tracheal mites are the easiest to prevent with Crisco patties
>Bill Truesdell

Prevent yes.

Will take menthol to clear the above hives and I suspect menthol a waste of
money for the most infested. 70-80% comes with a

" bunch of hive are going to die " statement from me as the damage is done
already to the trachea.

Michael said:
Well, I suppose they can be treated with Crisco, but IMHO, breeding is the
best and proper way to tackle Tracheal Mites.

Breeding is best for sure.

However if you run Italian bees they always seem to have a tracheal  full of
tracheal mites. I have bought Italian bees which the breeder claims tracheal
mites do not bother but my tests show even those bees needed treatment every
few years.

The dark bees seem to tolerate tracheal mites better than the Italians.
Tracheal mites are a non issue with the Russians I have tested.

Bob

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