--- On Fri, 5/8/09, Richard Stewart <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> I am getting lots of swarm calls. ...

> I disagree with the article that wild or feral colonies
> (defined as unkept bees with European origin) are on the
> decline, at least in our region.  They appear to be doing
> quite well.

Here in SW Pennsylvania, ferals are doing great!  The phone is ringing off the hook.  This from near zero calls 9 years ago and increasing to 6 and more per day this season.  I have not seen mite pressure, let alone mites in any significant degree in these ferals nowadays.   It is puzzling the disparity that exists between that which commercial beekeepers seem to be experiencing and what the feral population is experiencing, and yet they are often grouped as having the same problems by the press.  Makes one wonder, is it time to 'go with the flow' and start breeding from the best local stock and stop the never ending seeking of the next scientifically bred super bee. 

Best Wishes,
Joe  


      

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