# Beekeeping in Hot Weather with Anne Frey (293)

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/honey-bee-obscura-podcast-1371774/beekeeping-in-hot-weather-with-anne-frey-293
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/honey-bee-obscura-podcast-1371774/beekeeping-in-hot-weather-with-anne-frey-293.md
Podcast: [Honey Bee Obscura Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/honey-bee-obscura-podcast-1371774)
Published: 2026-07-23T10:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://honeybeeobscura.com/293-beekeeping-in-hot-weather
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/traffic.libsyn.com/secure/honeybeeobscura/Bees_In_the_Heat_293.mp3?dest-id=2550263
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/honey-bee-obscura-podcast-1371774/episodes/beekeeping-in-hot-weather-with-anne-frey-293
Duration seconds: 1145

## Resource

Summer heat changes the way both beekeepers and honey bee colonies operate. In this episode, Jim Tew is joined by Anne Frey of Betterbee to explore what beekeeping in hot weather really means inside and outside the hive. Jim begins by asking a simple question: are bees actually bothered by heat, or is it mostly the beekeeper who suffers? Anne explains that while honey bees evolved in warm climates and are remarkably effective at regulating hive temperature and humidity, beekeepers should think carefully before disturbing colonies that are already working hard to maintain those conditions. The discussion highlights the value of simply observing colony entrances rather than opening hives unnecessarily. Entrance activity, pollen collection, fanning behavior, and bearding all provide valuable information while allowing the colony to continue regulating its environment. Anne also shares practical guidance on managing Varroa mites during hot weather. Different mite treatments have different maximum application temperatures, making product selection especially important during midsummer. She discusses the temperature limitations of Formic Pro®, along with alternatives such as Apiguard®, ApiLife Var®, Apivar®, and repeated oxalic acid dribble treatments depending on colony conditions and local weather. Jim and Anne finish by discussing water sources, climate differences across North America, and practical ways beekeepers can help colonies during periods of prolonged heat while avoiding unnecessary stress on the bees. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of…

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