Myths & Misnomers: Apiculture myth #1
White hive To keep Moths away
Myth #1: Paint Your Hives White to Keep Out Moths
Truth: Color doesn’t stop moths—strong bees do.
Spend enough time around old-school beekeepers, and you’re bound to hear a few firm “rules” passed down like gospel. One of the more persistent ones?
“Always paint your hives white—moths won’t lay their eggs on white paint.”
It’s usually said with certainty. And while there’s often a grain of logic hidden in old advice, this one doesn’t hold up under a closer look—or under the watchful eyes of bees.
What’s the Thinking Behind It?
White reflects heat. In hot regions, painting hives white can help keep internal temperatures more stable. That part’s true. And some pests, including moths, are more active in warm, humid, shadowy conditions. So, it’s not unreasonable to think white paint might make the outside of the hive a bit less cozy for them.
But here's the thing: wax moths aren't looking for cozy siding. They're looking for weak hives with brood comb, where they can sneak in and lay eggs undisturbed.
What Actually Attracts Wax Moths?
Wax moths (Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella) don’t care what color your hive is. They’re drawn to:
- The scent of wax and brood,
- Dark, quiet spaces inside hives or stored equipment,
- And most importantly, hives that can’t defend themselves.
A strong colony won’t tolerate intruders for long. Bees will patrol and eject pests quickly, often before they can even get a foothold. Moths prefer to sneak into deadouts or failing colonies, where there’s less resistance and more leftover comb to infest.
So, What Color Should You Paint?
That depends on your climate, your aesthetics, and your bees’ needs—not on moth prevention.
- Hot climates? Lighter colors (like white or pale yellow) reflect heat better.
- Cooler or shady areas? Darker colors absorb heat and can help bees stay warmer.
- Multiple hives close together? Colorful designs, symbols, or unique shades can help bees orient and prevent drift between colonies.
And for natural beekeepers? Leaving hives raw wood or using non-toxic oils, stains, or even vibrant folk art is completely fine—as long as you respect the bees’ space and don’t use anything harmful or overly scented.
The Natural Beekeeper’s Take
Instead of asking, “What paint color keeps pests away?” Ask:
- “Is my colony strong?”
- “Is the queen healthy?”
- “Are the bees patrolling their territory?”
- “Is the hive ventilated, dry, and defended?”
Because moths aren’t the problem—they’re often the symptom. A well-defended hive can tolerate occasional visitors. But when invaders start creeping in and settling near the brood, that’s your sign something’s off.
Final Word
So, paint your hives white if you like the look—or if the heat calls for it. But don’t expect it to keep moths at bay. Your real defense is a vibrant, healthy hive, not a can of exterior latex.
Let your bees speak for themselves, and watch the way they respond to their world. That’s where the real wisdom lives.
