What is a viable practice to enhance bee health and survival?

Regular hive inspections are essential for enhancing bee health and survival because they allow beekeepers to monitor the condition of the colony closely. Through these inspections, beekeepers can assess the presence of pests, diseases, and the overall activity level of the bees. This proactive approach enables timely intervention, such as the treatment of varroa mites or other pathogens, if detected. Additionally, inspections help ensure that the bees have adequate food supplies and that the queen is healthy and laying eggs effectively. By maintaining regular checks on the hive, beekeepers can identify problems early and take necessary actions to support their bees, leading to healthier, more resilient colonies.

In contrast, overcrowding the hive can lead to stress and competition for resources among bees, while only using local bee breeds does not necessarily account for the specific needs or conditions of each individual hive. Avoiding feeding bees altogether may leave them vulnerable, especially during periods of nectar shortage or when first establishing a colony. Thus, regular hive inspections are a fundamental practice for sustaining bee health.