>I would guess that any importer avoids Italian bees now ?

Hmm. Have you ever seen a Small Hive Beetle? I sincerely doubt they will be imported in shipments of individual queen bees, as anyone would see them. They could come in via banks, packages, etc. On the other hand, we have had them here in NY state for at least 15 years and I haven't seen any serious problems for the bees. Storing of honey in combs has become much more difficult.

PLB

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