When Bees Take Over Your Deck: A Beekeeper's Guide to Pest Control

Dr. Anya Sharma · 2026-09-23

Imagine walking out your back door and hearing a low, steady hum. You look down and realize the sound is coming from under your feet—a massive beehive has taken up residence beneath your deck. That's exactly what happened to a family in Bovington, where bees built a huge hive under their garden decking. While that story might make headlines, for beekeepers, it's a reminder that pests—including bees themselves when they become a nuisance—are a constant challenge. As a beekeeper, you're not just managing your own hives; you're also on the front lines of pest control. From tiny mites to hungry bears, there's a long list of critters that would love to make a meal of your bees or their honey. In this article, we'll explore the best beekeeping pest control products to keep your colonies safe and thriving. Whether you're dealing with varroa mites, small hive beetles, or larger threats, we've got you covered. ### Understanding Common Beehive Pests Before we dive into products, let's get familiar with the usual suspects. Varroa mites are public enemy number one—these tiny parasites weaken bees and spread viruses. Small hive beetles are another headache; their larvae tunnel through honeycombs, causing fermentation and slime. Then there are wax moths, ants, and, of course, larger animals like skunks and bears that raid hives for a quick snack. Knowing your enemy is half the battle. The other half is choosing the right tools to defend your hives. ### Top Pest Control Products for Beekeepers Here are some of the most effective products available in the US, tested and trusted by beekeepers. - **ApiVar** – A miticide strip that slowly releases chemicals to kill varroa mites. It's easy to use and highly effective when used as directed. Price: around $30 for a 10-strip pack. - **HopGuard II** – Made from hop beta acids, this is a natural option for mite control. It's safe for honey supers and can be used during honey flow. Price: about $25 per pack. - **Beetle Blaster** – A trap that uses bait to lure and drown small hive beetles. It's reusable and chemical-free. Price: $20 each. - **Wax Moth Trap** – These traps use pheromones to attract and capture wax moths, preventing them from laying eggs in your comb. Price: $15 for a set of two. - **Ant Moats** – Simple but effective: place these around hive stands to keep ants out. Price: $10 for a pack of four. - **Electric Fence** – For larger pests like bears, an electric fence is a must. It's an investment, but it pays for itself by saving your hives. Price: starting at $200 for a basic kit. ### Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach Using products alone isn't enough. The best beekeepers practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which combines multiple strategies for long-term control. This includes regular hive inspections, maintaining strong colonies, and using physical barriers. For example, keeping your hives in full sun can reduce small hive beetle populations, as they prefer shade. > "IPM is not about eliminating all pests—it's about keeping them below economic threshold levels," says Dr. Marla Spivak, a renowned bee researcher. "A healthy colony can tolerate some pests, but when they overwhelm the bees, that's when you need to act." ### When Bees Become the Pest Sometimes, the bees themselves become the problem—like the Bovington case. When bees build a hive in an inconvenient location, such as under decking, it's considered a nuisance. In such cases, you might need to call a professional beekeeper or pest control expert who can safely remove the colony. Never attempt to remove a hive yourself without proper training, as it can be dangerous. ### Choosing the Right Products for Your Apiary Not all products work for every situation. Consider your climate, the specific pests you're facing, and the time of year. For instance, miticides should be used when honey supers are off to avoid contaminating honey. Always read labels carefully and follow instructions to the letter. ### Final Thoughts Beekeeping is a rewarding hobby, but it comes with its share of challenges. Pests are a constant threat, but with the right products and a solid IPM plan, you can keep your colonies healthy and productive. Remember, the goal isn't to eradicate every pest—it's to maintain balance so your bees can thrive. So, the next time you hear a hum under your deck, you'll know exactly what to do. And if you're a beekeeper, you'll be ready to protect your hives from whatever crawls, flies, or sneaks in.