In a message dated 99-12-20 08:51:08 EST, [log in to unmask] (Karl Dehning) wrote: << We recently have experienced very hot weather in Cape Town and the bees have not produced to my expectation. I have heard the theory that the nectar evaporates from the blossoms before the bees can get to gather it. Has anyone info regarding the the effect of hot weather on honey production. >> Has it also been dry and windy? I would tend to think it more likely that the nectar is not being produced in the first place, though I would allow the possibility of some evaporation. Usually heat and drought go together around here, and I think that stressed plants may show a more or less normal looking bloom without significant nectar production. This past summer here (South Carolina) was extremely hot and dry, with very poor nectar sources. Interestingly the best bees I had were on irrigated canteloupes and squash, crops that I don't consider good nectar producers. These crops produced enough to keep the bees from dwindling during the heat, and some of them actually produced a super of honey. Also the bees become stressed particularly if they don't have shade and lots of close fresh water. They may spend all their energies seeking out water and bringing it back for cooling. <<Also the bees were not very protective when we reaped the golden rewards. Usually we have to remain in our veils untill about 200 meters away. That day we stripped a mere 5 or so meters away. Comments??? >> When it's 100 degrees F, my bees could be worked naked. They just look at you, and say, "Whew, it's hot!" I've heard that's not true of the afrobees, but I think the ones we refer to, originated in central Africa, not south Africa..... Dave Green SC USA The Pollination Home Page http://www.pollinator.com The Pollination Scene http://members.aol.com/pollinator/polpage1.html Jan's Sweetness and Light Shop on the Internet (honey & beeswax candles) http://members.aol.com/SweetnessL/ Pollinator Y2K calendar: http://members.aol.com/PotGold/calendar.htm</PRE></HTML>