I am sure Dee could give many examples of what they look
for in hives in the desert to survive the long period
between rains.

Reply:
Here to survive, you must know your plants and rock
formations, besides what to look for when opening a hive
and looking down.

You want plants in your immediate area known to have roots
close to water, and rock formations known for this also. 

But in looking into hives, you want packed broodnests with
stores on the side 2-3 deep and bees solid in center with
TIGHT lids and no ventilation holes up top to let moisture
out. Here inside condensation is really needed for water
usage that the bees give off/make in heating during winter
and breathing.

In summer time, the other opposite extreme, you want bees
that can take the moisture from the honey drying and
channel it down by fanning into the broodnest area for
water usage there. It also helps to haul water if need be
to with floats upon the containers to minimize water
evaporating.

Respectfully submitted,

Dee A. Lusby
Small Cell Commercial Beekeeper
Moyza, Arizona
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/organicbeekeepers/




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