> Not quite sure what this means. I will take a look at the pre-varroa discussions concerning swarms on the Bee-L,
20 years ago is hardly "pre-varroa." I was collecting hives then, hives that had survived after being abandoned. These hives probably would have lived for years untended in the woods but they didn't last long in an apiary.
I live a very short drive from the legendary Arnot Forest. Even Seeley acknowledges that the success of wild colonies may have nothing to do with genetics and everything to do with isolation and finding a niche.
Way back in the 20th century treatment free was being promoted. Small cells and all that stuff. It became apparent that a lot of these bees with their little cells were scutellata hybrids. Scuts are perfect for bee-havers. They require little care other than to stay away from them.
PLB
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