Canadian Beekeepers call for import ban on non-North American bees as deadly mite spreads

Canadian beekeepers are raising fresh concerns about a fast-spreading parasite overseas and urging policymakers to act before it reaches North America. The tropilaelaps mite, already found in parts of Asia and the Caucasus, can wipe out hives by attacking young bees. Industry leaders say Canada’s dependence on imported bees leaves the country vulnerable, and they’re calling for tighter controls — and even a halt on offshore imports. A Conservative MP is also pushing to revisit Canada’s long-standing ban on packaged bees from the U.S., but regulators say the risks remain too high. Sarah Ritchie with The Canadian Press has the full story.