The discussion(s) of 'hot' bee colonies brought back memories of years
ago when beekeepers talked about the fiesty character of what they
called "Black Germans." Haven't heard that term used lately. Anybody
remember hearing that?

I had a few 'hot' hives over the years. I well remember one at an
outyard that were much more agressive than others, but not to the extent
being described - such as coming out unprovoked. But I always made a
point to work that one last. I went with the Bee Inspector and his
helper for an inspection, and put a pair of gloves in my coveralls
pocket. They razzed me about the gloves, but I just shrugged and
followed them. I suggested that they start from the opposite end of row
from the 'hot' one. No problems until they lifted the cover on the last
one, and then they learned why I had my gloves. They beat a hasty
retreat, and said I could close it up!

Yes, I did clear up the problem, But that hive was a good honey producer.

Leland Hubbell

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