What is a fundamental preventative care measure to protect active colonies from adult female moths?
Answer
Sealing potential entry points like cracks and crevices
Adult female wax moths target active colonies primarily to deposit egg clusters, and they do so in discrete locations within the hive structure where the eggs are protected from the guard bees. These preferred spots are small cracks and crevices found in the wood or joints of the hive. Consequently, a fundamental aspect of preventative management is the physical inspection and sealing of these potential entry points. By eliminating accessible hiding spots during the day or places to deposit eggs that are out of reach of the bees’ defensive actions, beekeepers significantly restrict the initial establishment of an infestation within the living colony.
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