Bee Talks Recap | August 2026
- Connecticut Beekeepers Association
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
In this episode of Bee Talks, we look at what’s happening in Connecticut apiaries as summer begins to shift toward fall, including current blooms, honey production, and what beekeepers should be watching for next. We discuss spotted lanternflies and the potential impact of honeydew on honey, along with the importance of keeping an eye out for the invasive yellow-legged hornet. We answer questions about chronic bee paralysis virus, what to do when a swarm builds comb before you have frames ready, and why keeping extra equipment on hand can save you some serious work. We also get into varroa management and several current treatment options, moving colonies when some bees insist on returning home, and even whether an electric smoker is really an improvement over the traditional kind.
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In this episode:
00:00 Welcome & Bloom Calendar
06:52 Do Spotted Lanternflies affect honey production?
12:53 What should I do if I see Yellow-Legged Hornets?
18:32 How can I tell if my hives have CBPV and if it spread between hives?
24:02 What are the benefits of registering my hives in CT?
25:10 I had two colonies swarm, and now I’m concerned that I don’t have enough equipment to handle the new hives — what should I do?
32:09 Can I treat with both Norroa and VarroxSan?
40:57 I moved my hives and my bees are coming back — why?
47:16 Does anyone have frames they would be willing to donate?
52:07 Electric Smoker Review
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Each session includes an open question and answer period, followed by a discussion on a seasonally-appropriate topic. This format helps guide you through the beekeeping year. These sessions are open to every beekeeper, regardless of experience or the type of equipment used. They will support your beekeeping practice and provide critical information for your success.
Bee Talks are led by Bill Hesbach, an Eastern Apicultural Society Certified Master Beekeeper. Bill is a graduate of the University of Montana's Master Beekeeping Program. He teaches bee biology and beekeeping methods at events hosted by regional organizations. Bill also appears as a guest speaker at national seminars. He is on the Board of Directors for the Eastern Apicultural Society and serves as President of the Connecticut Beekeepers Association. His articles have been published in Bee Culture, Bee Craft, and The American Bee Journal.
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