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Re: Pollination

Mark & Pumpkins,


The problem is a result of the Varroa Mite, in addition the tracheal mite.

Both of these mites kill  European Honey Bees, which are rapidly vanishing
form both Canada and the United states.

In addition, loss of habitat and pesticides are to blame but primarily the
two varieties of mites are doing the damage.

Estimates of bee colonies lost since 1940 - 6 million to 3 million and few
to no wild bee hives exist in many areas.

Chemicals in the US and Canada are currently being used to treat the
problem but resistance is a major concern, as has already occurred in
Europe.

Efforts are being made to develop strains of honey bees which are resistant
to the mites.

Currently those impacted by this problem include the back yard Gardner and
small Orchard farmers, however the problem could further spread to
commercial farmers who rent beehives.

Mark, if you would like to verify this check out the June Edition of
Scientific America there is a brief but good article on the subject.

Chris Andersen
Moraga, Calif.

________________________________________________________
> Has anyone seen much bee activity in their pumpkin patch?  I've had
> several male flowers bloom and one female with more to come soon, but I
> have not seen the first bee that I can think of.  
> 
> Mark Herndon
> Allardt, TN
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