What should be monitored regularly to prevent disease in hives?

Monitoring brood health and bee behavior is essential in preventing disease in hives because these factors directly influence the overall health and productivity of the colony. Brood health refers to the status of the developing larvae and pupae within the hive. By regularly inspecting the brood, beekeepers can identify signs of disease, such as abnormal brood patterns, darkening or dying larvae, and evidence of pests like Varroa mites. These are critical indicators that can alert beekeepers to potential issues that could devastate the colony if not addressed promptly.

Additionally, observing bee behavior provides insight into the hive's overall condition. Healthy bees typically exhibit specific behaviors such as foraging, building comb, and tending to the queen and brood. Any deviation from these behaviors, such as excessive cleaning or unusual clustering outside the hive, might indicate distress or illness within the colony. Thus, paying close attention to both brood health and bee behavior can help beekeepers detect problems early and implement remedial measures to ensure the hive remains healthy and productive.