Here, in the UK, while Lesser Wax Moths are considered to be indigenous 
and common, Greater Wax Moths were a rarity until about a decade ago 
and now they are fairly common (global warming?) . A lepidoterist 
friend told me that, when moth trapping, at times when moths that were 
known to have crossed the English Channel were caught, Greater Wax 
Moths were found with them.  This isn't conclusive evidence that they 
can migrate long distances but is a strong indication.

Wax moths have been described as the 'beekeeper's best friend' as they 
invade dead and thus undefended colonies and consume the old comb that 
may have been riddled with disease organisms.  Hmmm..... I wonder 
whether, when they have bred and multiplied in dead colonies, they 
might migrate to living ones and transfer spores faecally.  This has 
just occured to me and so I have no evidence or references either way.

Chris

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