> I have a delicate question that I would like to query all.   I have
recently
> placed an order for bees in the mid part of Alabama.   Before I ordered
them
> I asked the owner if there were any problems with Hive Beatles and was
told
> not yet.

While there are a number of excellent, competent breeders in Alabama, be
aware that Alabama does not have a State Apiary inspection program. The last
I had heard, their program had been discontinued. I have a package ordered
for this Spring from an Alabama breeder but know him and know his
credentials. While no inspection program is a safeguard by itself, it does
provide a level of consistency to pest and disease monitoring and
management. Just one more consideration when searching for a supplier.
Thoughts?

Ken Haller
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