Monitoring Varroa mite levels is one of the most important jobs for a beekeeper. By using the plastic closure included with your Screened Bottom Board, you can get an accurate snapshot of your colony's health without opening the hive.

Step 1: Prepare Your "Sticky Board"

• Take the white plastic closure provided with your bottom board and clean it thoroughly.

• Apply a thin, even layer of Vaseline or vegetable oil across the top surface. This prevents mites that fall through the screen from crawling away or being blown off by the bees' wings.

Step 2: Insertion

• Slide the coated board into the slot underneath the mesh screen of your 10-Frame Bottom Board.

• Ensure it is pushed in all the way so it catches debris from the entire cluster.

Step 3: The 24-Hour Wait

• Leave the board in place for exactly 24 hours.

• Pro-Tip: If you are in a high-heat area like Florida, don't leave the closure in for more than 24–48 hours, as it restricts the ventilation benefits of the screen.

Step 4: Counting the Drop

• Remove the board and look for small, reddish-brown oval specks (about the size of a pinhead).

• Count the total number of mites found on the board.

Step 5: Understanding the Results

To find your daily mite drop, take your total mite count and divide it by the number of days the board was inside the hive (in this case, 1 day).

• Low (0-5 mites per day): Your colony is likely in good health.

• Caution (6-10 mites per day): Monitor closely; the mite population may be growing.

• Action Needed (10+ mites per day): Consider a treatment plan immediately to protect your bees.