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Los insectos exhiben varios niveles de organización social. Muchas especies viven en grupos durante una parte de sus vidas, pero no todos estos grupos son verdaderamente sociales. Por ejemplo, las abejas chimenea, Anthophora abrupta, viven en grupos durante períodos de tiempo, no obstante, son abejas solitarias. Las abejas chimenea hembras construyen nidos en grandes grupos, dando la impresión de que son sociales, pero de hecho cada hembra construye y aprovisiona su propio nido. En contraste, algunos insectos, las hormigas, por ejemplo, viven en sociedades complejas llamadas colonias y dependen de interacciones sociales continuas para sobrevivir. Los miembros de estas especies sociales no pueden sobrevivir como individuos; deben vivir como parte de una colonia.

Un manejo adecuado de colonias incluye la prevención de enjambres. Prácticas apícolas proactivas alteran la respuesta al comportamiento de enjambre y deben ser utilizadas regularmente durante la época en la cual este acontecimiento sucede regularmente. Un buen manejo mantiene las colonias fuertes permitiendo que haya mas producción de miel y un mayor potencial de división que producirá unidades mas viables en el momento adecuado. Esto a su vez ayuda a optimizar la viabilidad del proyecto apícola. English version: DeBerry, Sara, John Crowley, and James D. Ellis. (2012) 2019. “Swarm Control for Managed Beehives: ENY-160/IN970, Rev. 7/2019”. EDIS 2019 (July). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-in970-2012.

The intended audience is Florida beekeepers of all operation sizes from small scale to commercial. There are 5,000 registered beekeepers in the state, managing almost 700,000 colonies. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have updated their rules and regulations related to honey production and what falls under the "Cottage Food Law." This publication provides beekeepers with Florida’s updates, so they will be able to sell honey legally under this law.

The purpose of this publication is to provide a 4-H project book that discusses honey bees and their importance to our nation’s agriculture. The intent is to introduce the world of honey bees to youth ages 8 to 12, with or without any previous beekeeping background or knowledge. This book consists of six sections that familiarize youth with the honey bee’s basic anatomy and life cycle, the three members of the honey bee colony, their roles and responsibilities, and colony communication. Each section has been designed to give youth a brief introduction to a topic and offers activities building on that topic. Written by Megan Hammond, Amy T. Vu, Mary Bammer, Emily Helton, Karen Henry, Jessica Sullivan, and James D. Ellis; 56 pp. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/4h419

To safely solve a pest problem, growers and pesticide applicators must be aware of the potential impacts of some pest-control strategies on bees, other pollinators, and beneficial arthropods. This 14-page fact sheet written by J. D. Ellis, J. Klopchin, E. Buss, and others and published by the UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department explains the issue and provides strategies to protect honey bees and other beneficial insects from pesticides. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1027

Originally from eastern Asia, the giant resin bee, Megachile sculpturalis (Smith), was accidentally introduced into the United States in the 1990s. It is considered an adventive (not native and usually not established) species and is present in most states in the eastern US. Although these bees can be found on various plants, they typically prefer plants that have been introduced from their native area. Some have observed that when collecting pollen or nectar, Megachile sculpturalis will damage local flora, making it unusable to future bee visitors. However, evidence has shown that, although an adventive species, Megachile sculpturalis is thought to be a pollinator of a native and federally threatened plant, the Apios Pricenana. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1258 Also available on the Featured Creatures website: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/MISC/BEES/Giant_resin.html

European foulbrood is a bacterial disease that affects Western honey bee larvae. It is a concern to beekeepers everywhere, though it is less serious than American foulbrood because it does not form spores, which means that it can be treated. This 7-page fact sheet written by Catherine M. Mueller, Cameron J. Jack, Ashley N. Mortensen, and Jamie Ellis and published by the UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department describes the disease and explains how to identify it to help beekeepers manage their colonies effectively and prevent the spread of both American and European foulbrood. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1272

This revised 9-page illustrated fact sheet by James D. Ellis discusses the merits of using nucleus colonies, or nucs, which are smaller versions of full-sized Langstroth hives. The publication explains how to create and manage nucs and how to use them to control swarming, strengthen production colonies, re-queen hives, hive swarms, produce queens to sell to other beekeepers, and in general strengthen and expand a beekeeping operation. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in869 Original Publication: Ellis, James, and Catherine Nalen. 2010. “The Advantages of Using Nucs in Beekeeping Operations”. EDIS 2010 (7). https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/118804.

Honey bee swarms are a normal sign of a productive and strong honey bee colony. The population of honey bees in the environment grows and genes are exchanged as the new queen in the parent colony mates with drones from other colonies in the surrounding environment. Unfortunately, this activity often conflicts with the goals of the beekeeper, so good colony management includes swarm prevention. During the swarm season, hive owners should undertake proactive beekeeping practices to alter colonies in response to potential swarming behavior. In this way, the beekeeper maintains strong colonies with greater honey production and the potential to split and increase the total number of colonies, all of which makes beekeeping much more profitable for hive owners. Originally published November 2012; updated July 2019.

This document discusses the interaction between black bears and beekeeping in Florida. It highlights the areas in Florida where black bear populations are concentrated and the frequency of bear depredations on apiaries. The manuscript emphasizes prevention as the best defense against bear attacks on beehives, recommending the use of platforms and electric fences as effective deterrents.

Several factors influence the flora throughout Florida, including annual freezes, average temperature, annual rainfall, and soil composition. Because of these variations, plants that grow well in one region may not grow well in another. Climate, plant communities, and timing of floral resources differ significantly between the three main regions in Florida: North Florida, Central Florida, and South Florida. While many plants are acceptable pollen producers for honey bees, fewer yield enough nectar to produce a surplus honey crop. As such, the tables in this document list the nectar-bearing plants that are present to some degree in each region and the plants' respective bloom times.

Climate, plant communities, and timing of floral resources differ significantly across Florida, which means that management of European honey bee colonies in Florida differs as well. This 8-page fact sheet written by James D. Ellis, Mary C. Bammer, and William H. Kern and published by Department of Entomology and Nematology outlines a management calendar created for Florida beekeepers. It is specific to region (north, central, and south Florida) and month and includes recommendations for major management considerations like when to treat for parasites or pathogens and when to feed colonies or harvest honey. This management calendar, while not exhaustive, is a valuable reference or starting point for honey bee colony management in Florida. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in848

The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella Linnaeus) and lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella Fabricius) are major pests of honey bee colonies in Florida. The best defense against wax moths in living colonies is keeping colonies otherwise strong, free of diseases and pests, and queenright. Controlling wax moths in stored combs and equipment, however, can be more difficult. This 3-page fact sheet written by Cameron J. Jack and Jamie D. Ellis and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Entomology and Nematology details the steps beekeepers can take to control wax moths and keep them from ruining stored honey bee combs and equipment. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/aa141

African honey bees and European honey bees are the same species of honey bee, but the two are classified as different subspecies or races of honey bee. African honey bee x European honey bee hybrids present an unpredictable combination of both subspecies‹ behavioral traits. This 4-page fact sheet written by J. D. Ellis and M. Bammer and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Entomology and Nematology explains how to “bee-proof” your house and yard and develop a bee safety plan as well as what you can do if you encounter a swarm or a colony of bees and how to treat a bee sting. edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1205

The establishment of native wildflower plantings in Florida can benefit agricultural producers as well as native pollinators and other beneficial insects (predators and parasitoids). The plantings do this by: • providing forage and nesting sites for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, • increasing wild bee numbers possibly across the farm, and • increasing natural enemies of insect pests (that also depend on forage and nesting sites). This document discusses choosing the right mix of native plant species to benefit many pollinator species, as well as proper site selection, planting practices, and weed control techniques. Wildflower plots should be practical to manage, maximize benefits to wildlife, and fit into the overall management practices of the property.

On January 12, 2017 following a public comment period, the EPA announced its Policy to Mitigate the Acute Risk to Bees from Pesticide Products. This policy represents the EPA’s recommended labeling statements to mitigate acute risks to bees from pesticide products. This policy is not a regulation or an order and, therefore, does not legally compel changes to pesticide product registrations. This document outlines the highlights of the EPA policy.

This document provides insights into chalkbrood, a fungal disease affecting honey bee colonies, and also this manuscript highlights the rising incidence of chalkbrood in the United States, with specific concerns in Florida due to its subtropical climate. Factors such as high moisture content, cool temperatures, and colony stress are linked to the growth of the causative organism, Ascophaera apis. While there is no recommended chemical treatment for chalkbrood, good hygienic practices within the colony, such as prompt removal of infected brood, are suggested for symptom alleviation.

This EDIS publication is an alternate version of a page published first on the Featured Creatures website. The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This 5-page fact sheet that discusses the giant honey bee was written by Cameron J. Jack, Andrea Lucky, and James D. Ellis, and published by the UF Entomology and Nematology Department, February 2016. EENY646/IN1119: Giant Honey Bee Apis dorsata Fabricius (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Apidae) (ufl.edu)

This EDIS publication is an alternate version of a page published first on the Featured Creatures website. The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This 4-page fact sheet that discusses the lesser wax moth was written by Ashley A. Egelie, Ashley N. Mortensen, Lynn Barber, Jessica Sullivan, and James D. Ellis, and published by the UF Entomology and Nematology Department, November 2015. EENY637/IN1108: Lesser Wax Moth Achroia grisella Fabricius (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) (ufl.edu)

A honey bee colony is a superorganism, which means that together its members function like a single animal. Bees within a colony work together like the cells in a human body. They warm the colony in the winter by vibrating their wings to generate heat and cool it in the summer by ferrying in droplets of water and fanning air over them. Worker bees fan air into and out of the colony entrance in distinct inhalations and exhalations. Colonies reproduce by swarming to create new daughter colonies that in turn thermoregulate, breathe, and reproduce just as a single autonomous animal does. In three pages this fact sheet explains the intricate caste system and age-based division of labor that allows colonies of humankind’s best-loved pollinators to function and thrive. Written by Ashley N. Mortensen, Bryan Smith, and James D. Ellis, and published by the Entomology and Nematology Department, November 2015. ENY-166/IN1102: The Social Organization of Honey Bees (ufl.edu)

African honey bees entered the United States in the early 1990s and have since spread throughout the Southwest and Southeast, including parts of Florida. Compared to European bees, African bees are highly aggressive when disturbed and are more likely to sting humans and animals. This revised 6-page fact sheet covers the history and distribution of African honey bees in the Americas and explains how beekeepers and residents can manage their interactions with these bees. Written by H. Glenn Hall, Catherine Zettel-Nalen, and James D. Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, December 2014.

Tracheal mites are parasites of the western honey bee and negatively impact the health and productivity of an infested colony. This 6-page fact sheet details the method of dissecting honey bees in order to diagnose tracheal mites. Written by John Bonkowski, Ashley N. Mortensen, and James D Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, January 2015. ENY-164/IN1072: How to Dissect Honey Bees (Apis mellifera L.) to Detect Tracheal Mites (Acarapis woodi Rennie) (ufl.edu)

The key to a prospering pollination service is proper promotion, honest, quality service, and a written contract. This contract would detail the expectations of both the beekeeper and the grower. This revised 4-page fact sheet provides a suggested pollination agreement. Written by Malcolm T. Sanford, Jeanette Klopchin, and James Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, March 2015. (UF/IFAS Photo: Thomas Wright) ENY110/AA169: Sample Pollination Agreement (ufl.edu)

The use of observation bee hives continues to interest a variety of people. This is not surprising. The observation hive is one of the primary research and educational tools in apiculture. It is both educational and entertaining. Observation bee hives can be used to enhance public relations and marketing programs. But a great deal of time and energy is needed to set up a hive and keep it going. Maintenance can be expensive and time consuming, especially if the hive is to be used as a permanent display for the general public. This 3-page fact sheet provides sources for building observation hives and tips for maintenance. Written by David Hall, James D. Ellis, and Malcolm Sanford, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, March 2015. (UF/IFAS photo by Tyler Jones) ENY131/MG320: Observation Bee Hives (ufl.edu)

The zombie fly is primarily a parasitoid of bumble bees and wasps in North America. In 2012, Dr. John Hafernik and his colleagus at San Francisco State University discovered that Apocephalus borealis also parasitizes honey bees. Parasitized honey bees show zombie-like behavior by leaving their hives at night and are often attracted to nearby lights where they show disoriented behavior and die in a few hours. This 5-page fact sheet was written by Nicole A. Casuso, Ashley N. Mortensen, and James D. Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, October 2014. (Photo: Jessica Andrieux, CC SA-BY 2.5) EENY605/IN1063: Zombie Fly (suggested common name) Apocephalus borealis Brues (Insecta: Diptera: Phoridae) (ufl.edu)

Western honey bee workers can invade and steal honey/nectar from other colonies or sugar/corn syrup from feeders used to deliver syrup to other colonies. This is called “robbing” behavior. Robbing behavior typically involves the collection of nectar and honey, but not pollen or brood. Some beekeepers report that robbing bees may steal wax or propolis from other hives, but there is not much data available on this occurrence. Robbing behavior can escalate quickly from just a few bees robbing other colonies to a massive frenzy of bees robbing many colonies in an apiary. This 3-page fact sheet was written by Ryan Willingham, Jeanette Klopchin, and James Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, February 2015. (Photo Credit: UF/HBREL) ENY-163/IN1064: Robbing Behavior in Honey Bees (ufl.edu)

Ripiphoridae are a family of unusual parasitic beetles that are thought to be related to tumbling flower beetles and blister beetles. They parasitize bees and wasps, roaches, and wood-boring beetles, but specific hosts for many ripiphorid species are unknown. Their secretive life cycle makes an assessment of their economic and ecological impact very difficult. Additional research is necessary to determine the abundance and impact of Ripiphorus species. This 4-page fact sheet was written by David Owens, Ashley N. Mortensen, Jeanette Klopchin, William Kern, and Jamie D. Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, December 2014. EENY613/IN1069: Wedge-Shaped Beetles (suggested common name) Ripiphorus spp. (Insecta: Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae) (ufl.edu)

The general public can take several steps to avoid encountering honey bee swarms or colonies. The first and most important step is for citizens to educate themselves and their families about the African honey bee (AHB). This revised 3-page fact sheet provides links to valuable resources, definitions of key terms, and touches on general precautions and bee-proofing. Written by M. K. O’Malley, J. D. Ellis and A. S. Neal, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, October 2014. (Photo: Scott Bauer, USDA/ARS)

The African honey bee, Apis mellifera scutellata, was introduced into South America from the central and southern part of Africa in 1957. Since its introduction into South America, the African bee has migrated into the southwestern United States and Florida. Apis mellifera scutellata is the African bee subspecies referred to in this revised 3-page fact sheet, which answers commonly asked questions about these bees and their behavior. Written by M. K. O’Malley, J. D. Ellis, and A. S. Neal, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, November 2014.

Keeping honey bees requires responsible management so that the bees do not become a nuisance. Additionally, the presence of Africanized honey bees in Florida places more pressure on beekeepers to maintain their colonies properly. This revised 3-page fact sheet is a reference for honey bee management in Florida, with emphasis on siting apiaries in sensitive locations, in order to promote harmonious cooperation between beekeepers, neighbors, and landowners. Written by Jamie Ellis and Jerry Hayes, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, November 2014. (Photo by Thien Gretchen (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), via Flickr) ENY115/AA137: Best Management Practices for Siting Honey Bee Colonies: Good Neighbor Guidelines (ufl.edu)

Honey bees throughout the world are exposed to numerous pests, parasites, and pathogens. One such parasite is Tropilaelaps spp. Delfinado & Baker, an ectoparasitic mite that feeds on the hemolymph of developing honey bees. Four species of Tropilaelaps have been identified and characterized. This 4-page fact sheet was written by Ashley N. Mortensen, Sarah Burleson, Gunasegaran Chelliah, Ken Johnson, Daniel R. Schmehl, and Jamie D. Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, October 2014. (Photo credit: Pest and Diseases Image Library, Bugwood.org) EENY604/IN1061: Tropilaelaps mite Tropilaelaps spp. Delfinado & Baker (Arachnida: Mesostigmata: Laelapidae) (ufl.edu)

Protecting honey bees and other pollinators from pesticide impacts is important to the sustainability of agriculture. Consequently, pesticide applicators must determine if there is a clear hazard to managed or wild populations of bees. Potential exposure of bees to pesticides can vary greatly depending on the type of pesticide, formulation, application method, label restrictions, and other factors. The goal in using a pesticide is to achieve maximum benefit (success) with minimum negative impact, and these factors should always be considered in pesticide selection. This publication is written (1) to help assure the sustainability of both bees and agriculture by informing beekeepers, pesticide users, and the general public about the often complex relationship between pollinators (specifically bees) and pesticides, (2) to offer guidance for improved communication between beekeepers and pesticide users, (3) to offer pollinator risk-reducing strategies for growers and other applicators when using pesticides, and (4) to provide clarity in laws, labeling, and associated definitions. This 14-page fact sheet was written by J. D. Ellis, J. Klopchin, E. Buss, F. M. Fishel, W. H. Kern, C. Mannion, E. McAvoy, L. S. Osborne, M. Rogers, M. Sanford, H. Smith, P. Stansly, L. Stelinski, and S. Webb, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, March 2014. ENY-162/IN1027: Minimizing Honey Bee Exposure to Pesticides (ufl.edu)

The Master Beekeeper Program (MBP) is a five-year (minimum) beekeeper training and certification program provided by the University of Florida. One must already be a beekeeper to enter the program. This 22-page fact sheet was written by James Ellis, Jerry Hayes, Catherine Zettel Nalen, William H. Kern, Ray Zerba, Brad Burbaugh, and Jeanette Klopchin, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, October 2013. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in847

One of the many challenges beekeepers face is minimizing honey bee colony losses during winter. This can be especially challenging to beekeepers in extreme northerly climates. Special preparations must be made during the fall to ensure that colonies survive the winter months with minimal loss. This 3-page fact sheet was written by James D. Ellis and Katherine Hammons and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, September 2013. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1006

The predominant material used to construct honey bee colonies in the U.S. is wood. Though honey bee hive components are simple in design, they are subjected to many extreme management techniques that cause wear and tear, ultimately shortening the life of the equipment. This article discusses how to protect colony woodenware, particularly the pieces that are exposed to the elements. These include the bottom board, hive body/supers, and lids. This revised 4-page fact sheet was written by J. D. Ellis, W. H. Kern, and C. M. Zettel Nalen, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2012. ENY125/AA244: Preserving Woodenware in Beekeeping Operations (ufl.edu)

The Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus) is a minor predator of beehives in Florida with the potential to cause major destruction. Large-scale urban and agricultural development inexorably reduces prime bear habitat each year. This habitat also contains excellent bee forage, and so bears and bees will sometimes come in contact, thus resulting in bear predation. This revised 2-page fact sheet was written by Malcolm T. Sanford and James D. Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2012. ENY-105/AA133: Florida Bears and Beekeeping (ufl.edu)

In 2011, the Florida Legislature enacted HB 7209 allowing individuals to manufacture, sell, and store certain types of “cottage foods” (including honey) in an unlicensed kitchen. “Cottage food operations,” as they are called, require no licensing or permitting from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and are not inspected by any other state government entity. This revised 4-page fact sheet was written by Nancy Gentry and James D. Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2012. ENY-159/IN918: Bottling, Labeling, and Selling Honey in Florida (ufl.edu)

Cape honey bees can produce both male and female offspring parthenogenetically. Unlike other African bee races, they are docile, but unlike all other races of honey bees, they are social parasites. Find out why South African beekeepers consider Cape bees a more serious threat than the varroa mite in this 4-page fact sheet. Written by James D. Ellis and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, December 2011. EENY-513/IN916: Cape Honey Bee Apis mellifera capensis Escholtz (Hymenoptera: Apidae) (ufl.edu)

Sweat bees are very important pollinators for many wildflowers and crops, including stone fruits, pomme fruits, alfalfa, and sunflower. Sweat bee populations can be encouraged with wildflower plantings and by providing nesting areas. Halictids typically nest in bare soil located in a sunny location. Minimum tillage and insecticide use will help to increase populations of Halictidae and other soil nesting bees. Learn more about this diverse family of bees in this 5-page fact sheet was written by Katie Buckley, Catherine Zettel Nalen, and Jamie Ellis, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2011. EENY499/IN897: Sweat Bees, Halictid Bees, Halictidae (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Halictidae) (ufl.edu)

ENY157, a 2-page fact sheet by C.M. Zettel Nalen and J.D. Ellis, provides recommendations for crime prevention in beekeeping operations, what to do if hives or equipment are stolen or vandalized, and resources for beekeepers. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, September 2010. ENY157/IN872: Theft, Vandalism, and Other Related Crime in the Beekeeping Industry: A Guide for Beekeepers (ufl.edu)

ENY153, a 6-page illustrated fact sheet by James D. Ellis and Catherine Zettel Nalen, discusses the merits of nucleus colonies, which are smaller versions of full-sized Langstroth colonies — creating a nuc, rearing queens for nucs, reasons to use them, and problems associated with them. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, September 2010. ENY153/IN869: Using Nucs in Beekeeping Operations (ufl.edu)

ENY158, a 4-page fact sheet by M. K. O’Malley, J.D. Ellis and G. W. Hayes, Jr., outlines and explains the 12 recommendations listed in the voluntary agreement between Florida beekeepers and state officials to minimize the spread of African honey bees. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, October 2010.

ENY152, a 4-page illustrated fact sheet by Amanda Ellis, Jamie Ellis, Michael O’Malley, and Catherine Zettel Nalen, provides an overview of the nutritional needs of honey bees with an emphasis on the role of pollen — nutritional content, where it is produced, how it is collected, and how to ensure colony nutrition. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, September 2010. ENY152/IN868: The Benefits of Pollen to Honey Bees (ufl.edu)

Revised! ENY-140S, a 3-page fact sheet by M. K. O’Malley, J. D. Ellis, P. Herrera, and A. S. Neal, is the Spanish language version of ENY140/IN738 Frequently Asked Questions about the Africanized Honey Bee in Florida. It provides information about Africanized honey bees (AHB) in a question-and-answer format. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2010.

ENY-141S, a 4-page fact sheet by M. K. O’Malley, J. D. Ellis, Pablo Herrera, and A. S. Neal, is the Spanish language version of ENY-141/IN739 What to do about African Honey Bees: A Consumer Guide. It provides information about Africanized honey bees (AHB), which have been labeled "killer" bees, steps people can take to avoid negative interactions, how to handle stings, and bee-proofing basics. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2010.

EENY-473, an 8-page illustrated fact sheet by James D. Ellis and C. M. Zettel Nalen, is part of the Featured Creatures collection. It describes this devastating pest of Western honey bees — distribution, description, life cycle, economic importance, detection, and management. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2010. EENY-473/IN855: Varroa Mite, Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman (Arachnida: Acari:Varroidae) (ufl.edu)

EENY-474, a 5-page illustrated fact sheet by James D. Ellis and Amanda Ellis, is part of the Featured Creatures collection. It describes this small beetle native to sub-Saharan Africa, which can cause considerable damage to colonies of European honey bees outside of its host range — distribution, description, life cycle, economic importance, and management. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, June 2010. EENY-474/IN854: Small Hive Beetle, Aethina tumida Murray (Insecta: Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) (ufl.edu)

ENY155, a 9-page fact sheet by James Ellis, Jerry Hayes, Catherine Zettel Nalen, William H. Kern, Ray Zerba, and Brad Burbaugh, describes the requirements for this beekeeper training and certification program provided by the University of Florida. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, May 2010.

ENY156, a 7-page fact sheet by J.D. Ellis and C.M. Zettel Nalen, provides Florida beekeepers a reference for honey bee colony management with specific guidance for region by month, including recommendations for major management considerations and blooming plants. Includes reference. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, May 2010. ENY156/IN848: Florida Beekeeping Management Calendar (ufl.edu)

EENY472, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by James D. Ellis and C.M. Zettel Nalen, is part of the Featured Creatures collection. It describes this wingless fly that lives as a commensalist in western honeybee colonies — distribution, description, life cycle and behavior and management. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, April 2010. EENY472/IN845: Bee Louse, Bee Fly, Braulid, Braula coeca Nitzsch (Insecta: Diptera: Braulidae) (ufl.edu)