Re: Bears I keep my hives in the Gatineau Hills 100km North of Ottawa, Canada. A few years ago, I saw a bear and two cubs a few kilometres from my hives. The pleasure of seeing the bears outweighed the fear I have of bear damage. I concluded that keeping my hives in an area free of pesticide use, free of agricultural production has a risk factor I'm prepared to live with. The area is predominantly forest covered with some significant but underutilized pasture - producing a very light, flowery tasting honey. My hives are located fairly close (150 metres) to a few lakeside cabins. This perhaps acts as a deterrent to bears. Bears are not "jerks" - they're just taking advantage of a fantastic opportunity we are creating for them. May this spring's nectar flow equal that of the mighty Amazon! Marc Patry Hobbyist Near Ottawa, Canada.