> I think it starts with understanding and cooperating, as much as possible,
with the bee's biology.

Aye, but there's the rub! Nobody can agree on what that really means. Of
course, anyone who fails to look after the bees' health can't be called a
beekeeper; more like a bee-haver. 

But seriously folks, if we were to stand back and let nature take her
course, it is likely that mites would destroy all but the africans, and the
africans would be the honey bee that prevailed. 

That's sort of giving up altogether, isn't it? I would prefer to raise big
fat carniolans and have them survive without chemicals. That's what breeding
is about: a better bee. Not settling for some hot-heads from the savanna.

Herve

-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and  other info ---