At our beekeepers' meeting last night in Marin County (Northern California) widespread losses were reported. We were wiped out completely (and decided to start with all new woodenware). We even lost a feral colony in a tree. The only member with bees to sell in the spring was asking $65 for a 3# package. Today I found out that several sources either have no bees this year or are pre-sold out; the group order from Tabor's in Vacaville will be $67.50 for 3#. Are there packages available anywhere for a reasonable price? We are a small organic farm. Are there similar losses in other places at the latitude of San Francisco? (I realize that microclimates vary wildly.) :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::