Wax Moths

Wax moths webbing and larvae have wrecked this frame.
Photo S. Ramsey

Wax moths can be a hassle. They usually go after dark combs eating pollen and protein rich wax. They spread their webs across the combs and leave it a mess.
A beekeeper ends up replacing all the comb with new foundation.
Wax moths are a problem in MN from mid June until it starts cooling off in Sept. The only method of control is Para - Moth. The Para - Moth is put on top of a stack of boxes on newspaper and the stack is closed up. This will repel the moths from getting into the stack of boxes.
Putting the frames in the freezer for a few days is also good control, if they are caught early on before the wax moths get to far on the comb. Freezing temperatures kills the moth in all stages of development.
Mothballs are not acceptable for wax moth control.
As it gets cooler in Sept and into late fall wax moths have a hard time getting going in hives. Storing equipment outside in freezing weather will kill the wax moth. Storing equipment in an attached garage may prove to be too warm and the moth may continue to do damage.