In this expert advice column, researcher Brian Lacey addresses the common nuisance of ants nesting within beehives, specifically within the Ontario region. While these insects rarely pose a direct lethal threat to healthy bee colonies, they often irritate beekeepers by congregating in warm, dry crevices like the inner cover. To manage these pests without using harsh insecticides, the author proposes several natural and mechanical deterrents, ranging from simple handfuls of grass clippings to fragrant spices like cinnamon. More elaborate physical barriers are also discussed, such as constructing moats around hive legs or utilizing borax-based bait traps that exclude honeybees. Ultimately, the source emphasizes that because effectiveness varies by climate and ant species, beekeepers should remain persistent and adaptable when selecting a management strategy.
