FAQs For Submitting Samples to NBDC

1. How can I ship samples to your lab?

There are two companies to use when shipping bees. If you need to send dead bees for Nosema, Varroa or Tracheal Mites, UPS is best. If you need viruses or AFB/EFB, Canada Post is best. The NBDC recommends live bee shipments to go express or priority post so the arrival time at the lab is quick. Canada Post is the only carrier that allows live bee shipping.

2. How do I package the bees for shipment?

Dead Bees: Place in a jar or container that is sealed tight. For added protection, putting the container in a plastic zip lock bag is recommended. Pack the samples into a box and surround them packing material so the containers do not move around in the box. The tighter you can pack it, the better. It is not recommended that the bees be shipped in any liquid. However, an alcohol wash can be done as long as the excess liquid is drained off. This works best for bees that require Nosema Count, Varroa Count and Tracheal Mites. Shipping quickly is best to avoid mould developing on the bees.

Live Bees: The containers must have air holes. A little water and sugar are recommended if the samples have to be shipped a long distance. The box that you ship them in should also contain air holes. Plastic vials with air holes poked in the lids, canning jars with mesh tops or holes poked into the solid tops, battery boxes and boxes made with mesh sides are a few of the examples that have been sent to the NBDC. Again, pack so there is little movement in the containers. Ship as quickly as possible to avoid bee death. Live bees are used for Viruses and AFB/EFB analysis.

3. How many bees do I need to send for analysis?

The NBDC recommends a general number of 350 bees. If you want a full spectrum, 400-500 bees is ideal.
A small note: drones are not representative of your hive and the NBDC does not count them for analysis.

4. How long before I can have my results?

We will have your results within two weeks maximum, especially if analyzing for viruses. Nosema, Varroa can be a minimum of one week, depending on the volume of samples that you send in.

5. How do I pay for my analysis?

Financial Services does all invoicing for NBDC. The invoice includes payment instructions. If you have further questions about your invoice, please contact Accounts Receivable at the Grande Prairie Campus toll-free 1-888-539-4772 or local 780-539-2911 numbers.  

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