There was these black specks on the inspection tray when I pulled it out. What are they? We have so much to learn and you guys are so helpful.
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There was these black specks on the inspection tray when I pulled it out. What are they? We have so much to learn and you guys are so helpful.
Were the "specks" moving? Can you post a pic?
JT
No pics and they weren't moving.
Did you have old drawn foundation in the hive?
T.G.
Didn't think to take pics and they weren't moving.
Could be varroa or as TG suggests, old black comb.
JT
Yes, there is some old black comb. Thinking about treating for the varroa mite to be on the safe side.
I would strongly recommend using Randy Oliver's powdered sugar shake method along with drone trapping as described here:
http://www.scientificbeekeeping.com/...d=31&Itemid=40
JT
If they are tubular and black, they are probably moth feces. If they are more purplish brown and flat, they are probably Varroa mites...