Does faecal stains always mean dysentery/nosema?

[Eddie_H]

Does faecal stains outside hive entrance automatically suggest a dysentery/nosema problem?

Could it just be that the bees are on normal cleansing flights? And since it’s winter they get rid nearer the hive?

Just wondered what others thought

 

[Stiffy]

Normal to get a few stains on hives at this time of year. Bees nip out for a quick cxxp and tend not to travel too far. Be worried when the front is splattered or heavily streaked with it, you may then have a problem.
S

 

[birdsandbees]

I agree, a few splats would be normal, streaks and a lot more of it and I'd be concerned.

I may be wrong but isn't it more brown rather than yellow when they are affected?

 

[Cuckmere couple]

we think we had a failed colony which had nosema and our local BKA colleagues had a look

the advice i had was that it is normal to see some and even when there is a lot, it doesnt automatically mean it is nosema...you need to confirm with microscope etc

i've got into the habit of adding a little thymol to autumn feeding

 

[Poly Hive]

In my experience what is far more indicative is streaking on the top bars than a few spots on the outside.

PH

 

[Eyeman]

In my experience what is far more indicative is streaking on the top bars than a few spots on the outside.

PH