Killing AFB colonies
Pour petrol and leave it
When the entrance has been blocked and all the other openings have been sealed, petrol should be poured over the top bars of the top box to kill the bees. Usually 500 ml of petrol is sufficient for a 1-2 storey hive, while about one litre will be required for larger, 3-4 storey hives.
The petrol should be poured over the top bars as quickly as possible, with care taken to put the lid back firmly on the hive so that bees do not escape. The hive should then be left undisturbed for 10-15 minutes while the petrol vapour kills any bees not contacted by the petrol.
It is important to remember that the petrol is put into the hive to kill the bees, not as a fire accelerant. Petrol should not be used to douse the hive before burning. There is sufficient wax in the combs to fuel the fire.
Videos
Our videos cover everything from your legal obligations to how to recognise AFB, collecting cell and bee samples and more.
Symptoms
There’s a lot of good information here, telling you everything you need to know about recognising AFB: the visual symptoms, smell of AFB and more.
Inspection and Diagnosis
Successfully eliminate AFB by telling the difference between symptoms of AFB and other brood diseases in the hive. We tell you the best methods for inspecting your hives.
The Law
New Zealand beekeepers have a number of legal obligations that must be met regarding AFB disease. Read the shortened list in summary, here.
Elimination
Most hives become infected because bees, honey or equipment have been put into a hive from another hive that is infected with AFB. Lower your chances of an AFB infection by reading this section.
AFB Recognition Course Info
Find out when the next AFB Recognition and Competency Courses, or Refresher Courses are available. These are held throughout the year in various New Zealand locations across the South Island and North Island.
The AFB App
Follow the link below to open the App. Once open to save to your device you need to bookmark the URL on your phone so you can find it easily again. Please click here to open.