[log in to unmask] wrote:
>
> David Eyre wrote:
> >
> > If I may be so bold. This method is not a breeding program. The idea is to
> > attract *already mature* adults which are ready to breed. I reiterate,
> > when the cell is sealed it is removed from the hive.
> >         Surely the breeding cycle is, mature adults move into breeding cells,
> > immature Varroa are *released* from the cell when the host emerges, they
> > then attach themselves to a bee, and move from bee to bee until they
> > mature. At which time the cycle repeats.
> >         This is a discussion group! Comments!
>
> In my opinion, David is rightly describing the life/breeding cycle of
> the varroa mite.  My understanding is that the mite breeds selectively
> in drone cells during the summer, then when drone brood tapers off in
> the fall they jump to worker brood. This weakens the developing winter
> bees, thereby imperiling the survival of the colony over the winter.
>
> I believe, as does David, that the drone trapping method is a valid
> control for varroa.
> Ted Fischer
> Dexter, Michigan USA
Dear beekeepers and Bee-L recipients:
   I thought that I would let "dead dogs lie" regarding the Varroa mite
trapping method described above and elsewhere. I don't wish to get
embroiled in yet another controversy. It is not my nature to argue,
quite the contrary, those who know me will ascertain to the fact that
my character is diametrically opposed. But I am sincerely disturbed by
reputable beekeepers to favor such a practice! What has happened to
common sense? We all know that foraging bees stray into other colonies.
We all know that drones are allowed "free" entrance to strange colonies!
If we have a "breeding" situation as proposed with this setup, how can
we keep mites from parasitizing foraging bees and drones which are not
"trapped?" It is impossible to prevent spread of those mites under any
circunstance. Beekeepers ought to be concerned with erradicating Varroa
and should earnestly avoid any situation which might give "the little
red devils" an edge! Please let's not forget common beekeeping
knowledge! The two examples I mentioned above are enough to warrant
looking for a safer method!
Regards.
Dr. Pedro Rodriguez
Virginia Beach, Virginia USA