In a message dated 29/01/2007 13:58:06 GMT Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: <<I have yet to see a feral colony with a case of American foulbrood or chalkbrood.>> Wasn't the high incidence of AFB a purely American problem? There was no disease issue in the UK, just a big campaign after World War 1 to persuade beeks to use 'modern' equipment and imported queens. I wonder if the real problem wasn't something unique to the way Us beeks were working, but I've never heard of any research into the question. Regards, Robert Brenchley Birmingham UK -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and other info ---