Dr. Nina Sokolov - Viral Dynamics in Honey and Native Bees

St. John Armenian Church, 275 Olympia Way, SF

Explore the critical issue of bee health and the role parasites play in colony declines. One of the leading threats to western honeybees is Varroa destructor, a virus-carrying mite responsible for significant hive losses. These honeybee viruses don't just affect managed colonies: they can also spill over into wild bee populations, particularly with a "hands-off" approach to beekeeping. Dr. Sokolov will discuss how active hive management for pest resistance can reduce parasitism and help maintain healthier bee populations.