> or worst case-3 to replace the 3 that were lost.

Not difficult to split 3 to make 6 if it is done at the right time.  Had to
do this with all my colonies last spring after the worst wintering ever
known in the UK.

Didn't buy any!  On that note, package bees are virtually unknown in the UK
- you either pay lots of money for nucs (typically £180 a time) or you split
your own for nil cost.

Best wishes

Peter

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