I am not suprised
>This idea is based on the assumption, reinforced by discussions with some researchers and others
> that viruses do not last long outside their hosts
Yes in most cases this is true, BUT not for ccd which can last 2-3 years
>The other explanation is a virus, but I would be surprised if one could come on so fast.
ccd can spread quite quickly if there is a large infective load,
through a WHOLE yard in 2 months, just from drifting
Dead out equipment is worse, no drifting needed
>My mite drops on one of these hives has so far shown zero! mites over almost a week.
As I said before: mites are only a minor part of this problem
>I'm wondering what to do next.
On a warm day do a ramp test.
If you see rear leg symptoms, then feed vitamin C, ?? 1 gm/3x week ??
until the ccd is under control, then 1 gm/week, for a month, then 1gm/every 2 weeks
Each feed is ~ 1 gm at a time(per hive)
OR do an experiment, feed half (of yard) VC, and half feed only
My method of feeding VC is thus: disolve 10 gm in minimum water, use recycled ketchup bottle,
add VC to bottle, add honey, warm and shake well,
feed by top-bar drench (run a bead of honey(like a welding bead) along length of top bar, all bars)
It may be my imagination, but I think the bees prefer this, even over straight honey
dave
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