In a message dated 25/10/2008 16:03:57 GMT Standard Time, [log in to unmask]  
writes:

My  question is about treating the bees.  Do you wait 'till you see signs of  
disease before treating?


Do you take an aspirin before you have a headache? There's enough  
chemical/unnatural stuff being put into hives already without adding to it  
unnecessarily. Why did you feed your bees when they have plenty of pollen  and honey?  Are 
you in an area with particularly prolonged and harsh  winters?
 
If you look at the list of pests and diseases that might afflict a colony  of 
bees and try to treat all of them you'll end up out of pocket, with stressed  
bees and honey you (as an organic gardener) might think twice about feeding 
to  your children. Keep an eye on those SHB though.
 
Why did you find it necessary to requeen so soon after getting your  bees?  
Had they superseded?  Here (UK) Buckfasts have a reputation for  producing a 
bad tempered second generation. It is interesting that they drew the  4.9 ok. 
Maybe it has something to do with Brother Adam's visits to Africa  collecting 
breeding stock.
 
Chris

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