The ever-growing guild of beekeepers and hobby beekeepers not only has to do with Varroa mites, but also with wasps. What drives the relatives into the beehives is usually motivated by thievery. Whether you should do something about the false fifties depends mainly on the bee colony.
The beewolf likes to eat honey bees
Unwelcome visit from relatives
We know it ourselves: Some relatives invite themselves, even if the relationship is rather critical. Maybe because they want something very specific from you. This is how you could describe the phenomenon that sometimes takes place in beehives. Bees are always visited by wasps. And of course not because the two species of stinging chimpanzees get along so well. Rather, as is so often the case in the animal world, it is about benefit. Wasps are primarily out for the bee larvae, but they also like to nibble on the precious honey.
Wasp species that can be dangerous to honey bees are mainly:
- hornets
- beewolf
- German wasps
- Common wasps
The beewolf feeds almost exclusively on honey bees, hence its name. It can be very problematic for bee populations. However, it hunts its victims on flowers when collecting nectar - it does not penetrate into the beehives.
Unlike hornets, German and common wasps. They do try to get into the bees' homes from time to time to plunder. Since each hive posts guards at the hive's entry holes, entry is not easy. Also, once successful intruders in the hive are usually violently attacked and evicted from the house.
Usually. Because bee colonies are differently well positioned. Depending on the size and above all the health of the population, a colony can also be too weak to ward off invaders. Even in cold temperatures, bees are at a disadvantage compared to wasps, which are more temperature-resistant and therefore more agile.
Helping to keep the peace in the house
To help the bees ward off unwanted wasps, it makes sense to reduce the entry holes on the hive. A size of 0.8 x 1 cm per hole makes it much more difficult for the wasps to penetrate inside. Basically, you should also ensure that the bee colony is well cared for and strengthened by careful feeding and regular mite prevention. Then they can defend themselves well.