> The high density of hives could even be bad for
> honeybees and other flower-visiting insects as it risks overtaxing the
> available nectar and pollen supply

One lurker wondered about our thoughts where a semi Africanized population
already exists at high density in an urban area (estimated 10-12 feral
colonies per sq mi in L.A.).

Might not it be possible to manage colonies in such areas to the benefit of
all?  Perhaps by helping the managed colonies to outcompete the ferals?
One would of course need to control swarming and select for the most
manageable bloodlines.

The main problems that I hear of are colony usurpation by Africanized
swarms, and the intense robbing pressure upon managed colonies by the
ferals.

Thoughtful discussion?

-- 
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com

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