This past season has seen a large increase in the numbers of small hive beetle (SHB) observed within beehives. Unfortunately, SHB is here to stay and they often make the most of an easy target - weakened bee colonies. Most damage to hives from SHB is preventable if the beekeeper appropriately manages their bees.  Strategies to minimise SHB damage Opening the hive When working good hives, you will often see large groups of beetles corralled into an area under the hive mat or comb area between boxes, excluder or in a corner. The bees have worked tirelessly to drive those beetles into that prison, the moment the beekeeper disturbs all that hard work and they escape, the beetles immediately become [...]