> Yes, MAYBE, but they certainly have Nosema.

I agree.

Nosema is getting to be a big deal in Australia ( personal conversation)as
only the queen and package beekeepers can use fumigillian. *If* the problem
with the dead hives turns out to be (as suggested by Jerry) related to a
nosema/virus issue I imagine Australia will let commercial beekeepers treat
for nosema ceranae if needed. Always takes a serious issue to out vote the
naysayers!

I realize we are the  minority
> opinion, but at least one should look for Nosema and viruses - if
> pesticides are NOT found to be the cause.

I also agree but the described scenario *in my opinion* does not fit what we
see in the U.S from nosema and virus. Another point is winter is starting
and their season is ending. Fall is a time when problems arise. Beekeepers
have not been in brood nests for awhile>

Could this be the first varroa find? Certainly past due!

I still wonder when the beekeeper last checked those hives and if recently
moved onto locations what area (or pollination etc.) the bees came from.

My *guess* is (like a TV mystery) we have not got all the *clues* yet.

I have never heard of the beekeeper involved.  Trevor? Peter D.?

bob

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