Alan Riach wrote:

> The isolated village beekeeping of our forefathers was probably the
> ideal scenario for the gradual production of genetically stable, non
> aggressive colonies.

I have wondered about this since when I started beekeeping was told not to
grow my own bees because I would get agressive bees with the next
generations. It has not worked out that way. Instead, my bees are no
different from year to year and I have been growing my own for six or more
years. Any agression comes because of outside influences, such as skunks.
The most agressive colony I ever had came from a purchased package.
I requeened all my hives with New World Carniolians and they have been
outstanding ever since.
Wonder if agression caused by growing your own is another of Allen's
beekeeping urban legends?
Bill Truesdell
Bath