Dr. Steve Pernal: Varroa Mite Research (343)

In this episode, Jeff and Becky speak with Dr. Steve Pernal, research scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, about his team’s recent work monitoring Varroa destructor populations and treatment efficacy across Canada. As varroa continues to be the leading driver of colony mortality, Steve and his colleagues are collecting long-term data on mite levels, reinfestation rates, and treatment performance across a wide range of beekeeping operations.

Steve shares insights from national monitoring efforts, including surprising findings on how quickly mites can rebound after treatment and the complexities of interpreting mite counts in commercial yards. The conversation covers regional differences in resistance development, what’s known (and unknown) about reinfestation, and why simply applying treatments may no longer be enough to manage mites sustainably.

This episode offers a grounded, research-informed look at varroa management—what’s working, where the gaps are, and what Canadian researchers are doing to equip beekeepers with better tools and knowledge. Whether you run a few hives or a thousand, you’ll walk away with fresh insights on what to watch for in your own operation.

Websites from the episode and others we recommend:

• Referenced BTP Episode with Dr. Erika Plettner: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/dr-erika-plettner-using-chemoreceptor-confusion-against-varroa-s6-e43/
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

 

Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

 

 

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

 

Thanks to Dalan who is dedicated to provi