The short version
Honey bee colonies face threats from parasites, scavenging insects, other bees and wasps, and larger animals. Most healthy, populous colonies cope with many of these on their own. Problems tend to appear when a colony is small, stressed, queenless or short of food. The most important single step is usually to keep colonies strong and to inspect them regularly so a problem is noticed early.
This page is an overview. The sections below link to more detailed guides where they exist.
Parasites and pests inside the hive
Varroa mites. Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite (an arachnid, not an insect) that feeds on adult bees and developing brood and can spread viruses. It is widely regarded as one of the most serious threats to managed honey bees in many parts of the world. Monitoring mite levels and treating or managing them according to local guidance is a routine part of beekeeping. Humans are not hosts for varroa.
Small hive beetle. Adult beetles and especially their larvae can damage comb and ferment honey in weak colonies. The larvae are one of the things beekeepers mistake for “white worms”. See white worms in a bee hive for how to tell them apart.
Wax moths. Wax moth larvae tunnel through comb, usually in weak colonies or in stored equipment. They are mainly a problem for unoccupied or struggling hives. They are covered in the same white worm identification guide.
Insects that attack from outside
Wasps and yellowjackets. These can raid weak colonies, particularly in late summer and autumn when natural food becomes scarce. Reducing the entrance and keeping the colony strong are the usual defenses. An entrance reducer helps the bees guard a smaller opening.
Hornets. Depending on where you live, hornets may hunt bees at the hive entrance. In some regions, invasive species such as the yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) or the northern giant hornet are a concern, and sightings are often requested by local agricultural authorities. If you think you have found one, check your local reporting guidance rather than trying to deal with a nest yourself.
Ants. Ants are usually more of a nuisance than a killer, but they can bother small or weak colonies. See ants in bee hives for prevention.
Robber bees. Bees from other colonies can overwhelm a weak hive when little nectar is available. A robbing screen and a smaller entrance are common countermeasures.
Animals that bother colonies
- Mice may move into hives in autumn and winter, chewing comb. Mouse guards or a small entrance help; see entrance reducers.
- Skunks and raccoons may scratch at the entrance at night and eat bees. Raising hives on stands and using fencing or other barriers are typical responses.
- Bears can destroy hives in areas where they live. Electric fencing is the commonly recommended protection.
- Birds, spiders, dragonflies and mantises take individual bees. This usually does not threaten a colony as a whole.
- Woodpeckers occasionally peck at hive boxes in winter in some regions.
How bees defend themselves
Some honey bees can kill hornets by clustering around an intruder and vibrating their flight muscles to raise the temperature enough to kill it. This behavior is best documented in Asian honey bee species that evolved with giant hornets. European honey bees are generally considered less effective at it, so beekeepers in hornet regions often rely on reduced entrances and other protection.
Will wasp killer harm honey bees?
Yes. Insecticide sprays are designed to kill insects and can also kill honey bees if they contact the spray or return to contaminated surfaces. Avoid spraying near hives. If you need to deal with a wasp nest, keep well away from your apiary and follow the product label, or ask a pest professional.
A simple prevention routine
- Keep colonies strong with adequate food and a healthy queen.
- Adjust entrance size to the colony’s size and season.
- Inspect regularly and watch for unusual activity at the entrance.
- Keep the apiary tidy and avoid leaving honey, syrup or wet equipment out.
- Learn the local pests and reporting rules in your area.
Moisture problems can also stress colonies; see mold in a bee hive.
FAQ
Do raccoons bother bee hives? They can, usually at night. Raising the hive and using barriers are common solutions.
What animal eats ground bees? Ground-nesting bees are not honey bees, and various birds and other animals prey on them. It is not a honey bee management issue.