In a message dated 1/27/01 5:05:51 AM Eastern Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< Hi:  A mathematical modeler contends that bee foraging flights can be
 modeled by diffusion theory.  Comments? >>

   Over the years I have been impressed by the number of times I've seen
selective pesticide damage.  This suggests that a few hives are working in an
orchard or field that has been sprayed, while other hives in the same bee
yard are not.

   I am not scientific enough to put it in formulae, but I've always said
that bees are "creatures of habit."  If the scouts guide a particular hive to
forage in one area, they  will all tend to go that way, and will continue to
do so. Other hives may go in other directions.  That doesn't seem very
random. There is a certain amount of intelligent guidance.


Dave Green
The Pollination Home Page:   http://pollinator.com