There are many things that contribute to high annual colony losses. Often these factors are grouped into what is commonly known as the “Four P’s.” These represent the major honey bee health threats, and they are all connected. For example, Varroa mites not only weaken bees but also spread viruses, and without access to sufficient floral resources (food), bees are less able to fight off the parasites and diseases. Scientists are also looking at these factors through the lens of climate change, and how they respond to extreme environmental conditions and stressors.
(link to 4p’s pop ups: parasites, pathogens, poor nutrition, pesticides)