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Bee Louse
I can’t say I’ve had experience with the bee louse. Not a major threat, they are wingless flies seen on the Queen’s body. They are less common than other parasites, observed either on the queen or tunneling under honey wax cappings. Eradication of this rare pest can be performed by freezing infested honey comb (frames) for 48 hours. It’s said that varroa mite treatments also control bee lice, so that may explain why I’ve never see them.
Comb management helps reduce risk. It’s recommended to cycle out comb every 3-5 years. Wax absorbs everything including varroa treatments (organic in our apiary), field pesticides, pathogens and pollens. Fresh comb is healthier for the colony.
Greater Wax Moth
Unfortunately, I do have experience with this pest…and they are simply gross. A weak colony can become infested with wax moth, causing damage to honey, honey comb, and the health of the hive. The moth tunnels through the frames, leaving a mess if unchecked. They are more common to invade combs that are in storage. Like the louse, freezing temperatures will kill the eggs of the moth. In addition to freezing, I have used wax moth crystals in storage as a few of our winters did not get cold enough to kill off this pest.