Australian honeybees are under attack by mites and beetles. Here’s how to keep your backyard hive safe

Varroa mites on a male bee larva. Theotime Colin

Australia’s honeybees are facing an exceptional crisis. The tiny but devastating foreign pest Varroa destructor is steadily spreading across the country.

The mite feeds on baby bees (larvae), weakening them. It can also spread viruses that eventually destroy entire bee colonies.