I've mentioned it before, but one of the more robust programs going here in
the US that I am aware of related to finding and propagating feral bees is
the Sustainable Genetics Technology Network.

 

It is a loose confederation between Purdue, the Heartland Honey Bee
Breeder's Association and participating state queen breeders associations
(Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia). In
short, they are catching, evaluating and cross-breeding feral stock from the
Ohio Valley, and sometimes back-crossing with Purdue MBB stock. 

 

At least in their context,

 

'Experience shows Feral Honey Bees live within 50 miles of a River, with
Woodlots ages of 75 to 100 years and Excellent Natural Nutrition For
Pollinators. Also no MANAGED BEES within 10 miles of the area you are
locating Swarm Traps.'

 

I've attached a map of their target range for reference.

 

They use a combination of swarm trapping and feeders to identify areas with
significant feral populations.


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