Mice are the most common and troublesome rodent pest of honey bee colonies (click on photo to enlarge mouse). They become a problem during fall when the evening temperatures begin to drop. The beehives provide food (pollen, honey and bees) and protection from the cold. The mice destroy the frames and wax comb by chewing them to provide room to build their nest. Not only is the destruction of the equipment a problem, but the odor created by their urine and droppings can cause the bees to abandon a hive. These mammals can be kept out of colonies by reducing the size of the entrance as the weather begins to cool down. Mice also nest in stored bee equipment resulting in the same kind of damage; therefore care is also needed to keep these pests from stored equipment.

Honey Bee Disorders / UGA Honey Bee Program / UGA Entomology Department