> I have never seen any proof that the so-called ferals are anything more than swarms recently escaped from managed hives. A very good point, and I agree. Lets study this further. Just because there is a lack of proof, does that provide sufficient evidence to suggest they are from domestic colonies? I think not, it suggests nothing, and leaves one only with speculation. Another speculation which can be made is that records in Penn State and DOA survey's should reflect a 10 fold increase in honeybee colonies in SW PA to coincide with the 10 fold increase in bee removal calls. Best Wishes Joe Waggle *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html Guidelines for posting to BEE-L can be found at: http://honeybeeworld.com/bee-l/guidelines.htm