[borncamp]

I know varroa mites will attach themselves to drones and workers. However, I was wondering has it ever been observed that a mite will directly parasitize a queen?

 

[Beeonefarms]

ive never seen it but .. they could jump on you improbable but very possible

 

[AR Beekeeper]

I have seen a mite riding a queen 2 times, so I don't think it is very common.

 

[ForrestB]

has it ever been observed that a mite will directly parasitize a queen?

Yes

 

[Joseph Clemens]

I have also seen Varroa mites on queens. A few times, but not very often, so I don't believe that queens are more attractive to the mites, than other bees are. But it certainly does happens.

And, when I've ran queen cell builder colonies, without any open brood, for extended periods of time, I've even seen Varroa riding queens as they emerge from their cells. A very unpleasant and disconcerting site.