Hi Ellen.

I, too had a similar problem with the Buckfasts.  I've kept them for several
years and found them to be very prolific and productive---for the first
generation.  Thereafter they presented the problems you describe.  Mine got
very mean.

Reluctantly, I switched back to gentle Italians.  They don't build up as fast
and don't produce as outstanding a brood pattern, and don't produce as much
honey but I have happier neighbors and fewer stings!  My two hives are in
downtown Seattle.

Wes Uhlman