Honey Sunday at Mosquito Hill: What Beekeepers Are Buzzing About

Dr. Anya Sharma · 2026-09-21

### A Sweet Tradition Returns to Mosquito Hill Nature Center Every year, beekeepers and nature lovers gather at Mosquito Hill Nature Center in New London, Wisconsin, for Honey Sunday. It's a day dedicated to all things bees—tasting local honey, learning about hive health, and swapping stories with fellow enthusiasts. This year's event, covered by NBC26, was no exception. But beyond the honey tastings and family fun, there's a serious undertone: keeping bees healthy in a world full of pests. If you're a beekeeper, you know the struggle. Varroa mites, small hive beetles, wax moths—they're relentless. And while events like Honey Sunday celebrate the good stuff, they also remind us that pest control is a year-round commitment. So let's talk about the best products to keep your colonies thriving. ### Why Pest Control Matters More Than Ever Beekeeping isn't just about harvesting honey. It's about stewardship. Pests can wipe out a hive in weeks if left unchecked. Varroa mites, for instance, weaken bees and spread viruses. Small hive beetles slime combs and ruin stored honey. Wax moths destroy frames. The key is integrated pest management (IPM): a combination of monitoring, cultural practices, and targeted treatments. But with so many products on the market, how do you choose? I've spent years testing and comparing beekeeping supplies, and I've narrowed it down to a few standout options. These aren't just popular—they're effective and safe when used correctly. ### Top Pest Control Products for Beekeepers Here are my go-to recommendations, based on field tests and feedback from professional beekeepers across the U.S. - **Apiguard (Thymol Gel)**: Slow-release thymol gel that kills varroa mites. Easy to apply—just place the tray on top of frames. Works best when temperatures are between 59°F and 77°F. A 10-tray pack costs around $45. - **Mite Away Quick Strips (MAQS)**: Formic acid strips that treat varroa mites. They're effective even when brood is present. Use with caution in hot weather (above 85°F). A 10-strip pack runs about $60. - **Beetle Blaster**: A non-toxic trap for small hive beetles. It uses a food-grade attractant and can be placed at the hive entrance. A pack of 10 costs roughly $25. - **Wax Moth Trap**: Pheromone-based trap that catches adult wax moths before they lay eggs. Ideal for stored comb. A two-trap set is about $30. > "The best pest control is the one you actually use consistently. Don't wait until you see damage—monitor and treat proactively." — Dr. Anya Sharma, Lead Product Comparison & Reviews Strategist ### How to Choose the Right Product for Your Hive Not all hives are the same. Your location, climate, and colony strength all play a role. Here's a quick cheat sheet: - **If you have varroa mites**: Start with Apiguard or MAQS. Rotate treatments to prevent resistance. - **If small hive beetles are a problem**: Use Beetle Blaster traps and keep your hive dry. Moisture attracts beetles. - **If you store comb**: Wax moth traps are a must. Freeze frames for 48 hours before storing to kill eggs. Always follow label instructions. Overuse can harm bees or contaminate honey. And remember: healthy bees are better at fighting pests on their own. So focus on nutrition, ventilation, and regular inspections. ### The Bottom Line Honey Sunday is a celebration, but it's also a call to action. As beekeepers, we owe it to our bees to stay informed and equipped. The products above are tested and trusted by professionals. They're not the cheapest, but they're worth every penny when you consider the cost of losing a hive. So next time you're at an event like Honey Sunday, take a moment to talk to other beekeepers. Ask what works for them. You might just find your new favorite pest control solution.