From: grizzly bearnolds <mkittner@telus.net>
Date: Thu, 02 Aug 2002 09:23:42 -0700
To: BiologicalBeekeeping@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: plastic trials

>In the UK midlands... Many 'mixed race' colonies discard their drones in
>June and also July. Those that retain drones may well have 'faulty' queens.

I am watching this since Chris always kept telling me that drones left in a
hive for winter may indicated a problem with the queen. I am just watching
it. Those that wintered and had a lot of drones left, I tentatively say
Chris had it right, because the queen and with that the colony didn't make
it. But those who only keep a few drones into winter, well ... don't know
yet. I am also watching it during the summer season, what may be if there
are lots of drones in one hive, some have far more than others for sure.

However, June is when we see the first drones out and about. Mid to late
August, early September for sure, may be the major time when drones get
kicked out in full force hereabouts.

For some reason not yet understood, there seem to be more drones hanging
out behind the beehouse area these past few weeks, I hear them more than I
see them. Mom said they are confused and can't find the entrance to the
hives, which are on the opposite side of the beehouse and somehow they get
stuck behind.

Ma. .. North Pacific Coast, British Columbia, CANADA