UK authorities remain active in preparing and monitoring for the Small hive beetle. Contingency training exercises were run by the National Bee Unit (NBU) in Exeter and Cardiff last year to test existing plans and protocols, with particular emphasis on detection and controls of the Small hive beetle. Lessons will be taken forward to ensure the UK is best placed to tackle this pest should it arrive in the UK. Updated husbandry and management methods for controlling Small hive beetle have been included in the following National Bee Unit leaflets.
Small Hive Beetle Update
A new case of Small hive beetle (Aethina tumida) has been confirmed in the Gioia Tauro area of Calabria, Italy. Further details can be found on the Italian National Reference Laboratory website.