> If I recall Seeley's conclusions correctly, distance was the factor for survival.

Actually, Tom has undertaken a long term study to determine what (if anything) is different about feral hives. He early on gave up on the notion of a genetic component, since when the bees were moved into town, they tanked. 

I was doubtful of the genetic hypothesis from the start, knowing that the Arnot Forest is surrounded by commercial apiaries, from my time as a NYS bee inspector. 

Tom is also surveying the genetic makeup of bees in the general vicinity to see if the Arnot bees are distinct or not. But the facts seem to point to the factors I have already described: height, isolation, lack of beekeeper meddling, etc. 

PLB

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