In an effort to fight a massive bee die-off, scientists have developed a population of honeybees that can find the parasite that feeds on pupae in nests and spreads viruses within hives. USDA scientists hope the population of these honeybees could potentially improve the health of the overall honeybee population.

For more than 20 years, varroa mites have decimated millions of honeybee colonies in North America and they are becoming resistant to pesticides.

Scientists are optimistic that the honeybee industry is on the right track toward recovery from the varroa pest and Colony Collapse Disorder. Personally, I have seen no change from my vantage point on my back patio sitting on my wicker chairs with outdoor cushions…but it is reassuring to learn that scientists are coming closer to a solution to this potentially devastating situation.