<<<< Barry richards wrote ...
Since the spread from Florida has been documented since the spring, do we
have any indication as to whether the beetle can tolerate winters in the
Southeast?  How does the climate in South Carolina compare to South Africa?
>>>>
 
 
Barry,
    Unless the infested hives discovered in SC were overwintered in Florida
(an I have heard nothing stating that to be so) I think it is safe to
presume that the Afro-Beetles over wintered in SC last year.  Although we
had a mild winter, we did have some cold snaps that could have proven
fatal.
  In talking with Garth from South Africa, he stated that the climate of
the midlands and low-country of South Carolina are similar to that of South
Africa.
  Also, It has been stated that the Hive beetle is able to survive periods
of cold weather by living within the brood cluster of the bees, therefore,
a beetle (or group of them) could overwinter quite easily in the SC
climate.
 
Rod Billett
Lexington, South Carolina, USA