On Nov 16, 2005, at 5:56 AM, Isis Glass wrote (in part):

I have discussed "feral colonies" in the NE woods with a certain Dr.
--- and
> he reminds us that the survival of these swarms MAY be due to the
> presence
> of non-virulent mites. Mites can adapt, too. Better for them not to
> kill the
> host.

    I made the same suggestion six years ago at:
http://www.beesource.com/pov/wenner/abjsep1999.htm

    Surviving feral bee colonies are more widespread than some might
assume.

                                                                        Adrian

> Adrian M. Wenner              (805) 963-8508 (home office phone)
967 Garcia Road                 [log in to unmask]
Santa Barbara, CA  93103        www.beesource.com/pov/wenner/index.htm

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