What is a primary symptom of Varroa mite infestations in a bee colony?

The primary symptom of Varroa mite infestations in a bee colony is deformed wings in adult bees. This deformation occurs as a result of the mites feeding on developing pupae within the capped brood cells. When the Varroa mites attach to the pupae, they can cause various developmental issues, one of the most recognizable being the deformity of the wings once the bees emerge as adults.

Deformed wing syndrome is a clear indicator of mite impact, as it directly affects the physical fitness and flight ability of the bees. This condition can lead to the loss of foraging efficiency and ultimately impacts the overall health of the colony. While other symptoms, such as loss of colony population and reduced honey production, can also result from a Varroa infestation, they are typically secondary effects that may arise from the initial impact of the mites on individual bees and the colony's health.