Hello all,
             I recently resubscribed to BEE-L after signing off last fall.
I did so to share some good news. Last fall, I believe we had several
discussions on treating for mites chemically, or allowing nature to take
its course. I opined that I was going the natural route and hoping for
the best. I can now confirm that all 4 of my colonies made it through the
winter intact & are doing very well. I'm inclined to believe the factors
here are easily explainable, rather than miraculous. First, it was a very
mild winter here in Va. which I am sure was a big help. Second, and most
important, (though sad) I am now almost certain there are no feral swarms
for a radius of many miles. I also seem to be the only bee-keeper for
many miles around. This means no chance of re-infection, since these
swarms were purchased last spring and certified mite free. I'm not sure
there are NO mites present, but the fact all swarms lived indicates this,
since all my other colonies for the past 2 years were decimated. I may
have the swarms checked for mites later in the season and if there ARE
mites present, it means I am the happy owner of 4 resistant colonies.
This gives me some hope, either way that this thing can be just another
nightmare in the past of all bee-keepers...
                      Mike High
 
"I take my chances,I don't mind working without a net,                           I take my chances,I take my chances every chance I get"                                   Mary Chapin Carpenter