> >I will say this: last year I split all my colonies in May and June and
> by July the mite levels were over the limit. Again, any procedure that
> focuses only on mite build-up and ignores the summer influx, misses the
> problem.

My own research and mathematical modeling strongly support your assertion
that immigration of mites, especially from collapsing colonies in late
summer and fall, can contribute to a rise in the mite population of
recipient colonies. However, the numbers do not support your assertion that
that was the main reason for the high mite levels in your colonies in July.

¶

I don't see in what I wrote that I was asserting that. The two statements are independent of each other. The common thread is constant vigilance and taking action when necessary, not according to prescribed protocols. Sorry if the message was too abbreviated to be sensible. I am busy with other stuff right now.

Regarding my "assertion that immigration can contribute to a rise in the mite population," I think that is rather weak. I would say that it has been shown pretty definitely in the studies I have cited that this is taking place. 

Further, we had a drought condition in June. June is normally a period where forage in NYS is lacking. Beekeepers call it the "June Gap." This was exacerbated by the drought and could have caused migration during that month. But I never said it did.

¶

> Pete, the last thing that I want to do is to appear to be picking on you, but I feel that on Bee-L we must be careful about making assumptions and unsubstantiated statements.

I always try to avoid making these things personal, and am always surprised when other folks do so. On the other hand, my sense is that this is a discussion group, not a podium or a soap box. 

PLB

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