Use the varroa calculator to determine the infestation level of your bee colonies. Enter the number of mites counted and the method used to get an estimate and recommended action.

Step-by-Step Varroa Monitoring

Collect a Sample

Collect about 300 bees from a brood frame (roughly half a cup). Make sure not to include the queen.

Choose a Method

Sugar roll method (gentle, bees survive) or alcohol wash method (more accurate, bees die). Alternative: Natural mite drop on bottom board insert.

Count the Mites

Carefully count the dislodged mites. For sugar roll: place bees in a jar with mesh lid, add powdered sugar, roll and shake.

Calculate Infestation Level

Enter your values in the calculator above. The infestation level is automatically calculated and assessed.

Plan Treatment

Is the infestation level above the threshold? Schedule an appropriate treatment and document it in Hivekraft.

How the Varroa Calculator Works

The calculator estimates infestation levels based on the selected method. For sugar roll and alcohol wash, a sample of ~300 bees is assumed. For natural mite drop, an average is extrapolated for the total population.

Thresholds

< 1 mites/100 bees: Low infestation, no treatment needed
1-3 mites/100 bees: Moderate infestation, recheck in 1-2 weeks
3-5 mites/100 bees: High infestation, treat soon
> 5 mites/100 bees: Critical, immediate treatment needed