Varroa mites in Townsville

Our officers are responding to another incursion of varroa mites (Varroa jacobsoni) found at the Port of Townsville on April 28 2020.The tiny mites were brought here on a nest of Asian honey bees. 

Early detection is vital. If you live in the Townsville area and see bees, and suspect they may be Asian honey bees, please contact us immediately so they can be checked for mites on 13 25 23. Asian honey bees are smaller and shinier than our European honey bees, with more even stripes down the length of the body.

For more information relating to reporting exotic pests and disease please visit the following links:

Asian Honey bees: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/land-management/health-pests-weeds-diseases/pests/invasive-animals/restricted/asian-honey-bees

Varroa Mite: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/land-management/health-pests-weeds-diseases/pests/invasive-animals/prohibited/varroa-mite

REPORT ALL DETECTIONS OF EXOTIC PESTS AND DISEASE HERE:

https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/contact/report-a-biosecurity-pest-or-disease?form=bee_sightings-1553074