The #1 killer of honeybees over winter is Varroa Mites. (Red bumps on bees back) They hitch a ride on honeybees similar to ticks on animals and humans. They feed on the bee, transmit disease and weaken the hive. Total colony collapse is often found in early Spring due this tiny parasite multiplying throughout winter with no human intervention. We treat naturally late fall and early Spring to control the numbers with Oxalic Acid – a natural organic compound found in plants and vegetables. This effectively kills the mites on the bees and controls their population. It’s impossible to get rid of them completely so we treat at key times to control them.