Greetings all As there have now been a number of messages along this thread, I thought I had better add my two cents. Cape bees (Apis mellifera capensis) have been used for scientific research in Europe for about two decades. Aspects of capensis biology is currently being investigated in at least three European countries and at least five institutions. Data has previously been published to indicate that capensis workers do sometimes drift into European colonies where they cause problems and occasionally colony loss - but this situation seems to pose no threat as the Cape workers all seem to die during winter. Some opinions: (1) After such a long time I don't believe capensis in Europe constitutes a serious risk. (2) Nonetheless, perhaps research on Cape honeybees (which could be of advantage to beekeeping in Europe) is best carried out in the Cape. Some observations: (1) Murray McGregor's comment on capensis in Britain in the 1920's is interesting. I had not heard of this, but it is entirely possible. If anyone knows more details about this, please let me know. (2) The three beekeepers mentioned by Martin Braunstein (Dirk de Klerk, Brett Falconer & Theunis Engelbrecht) are all still very much involved in commercial beekeeping in South Africa, the capensis problem notwithstanding. regards Mike Allsopp Stellenbosch, South Africa Mike Allsopp tel (27)(21) 887-4690 Honeybee Research Section fax (27)(21) 883-3285 Plant Protection Research Institute pmail plant3/vredma Agricultural Research Council email [log in to unmask] P/Bag X5017 Stellenbosch 7599 South Africa