![]() Instead, his research has shown conclusively that varroa mites feed on the fat bodies of bees. But Ramsey, then a PhD candidate in Dennis van Englesdorp’s University of Maryland bee lab, questioned that theory. We’ve based our treatment of this pest and management of our colonies on that idea. For decades scientists have told us that varroa feed on the hemolymph or blood of bees. ![]() I’m particularly excited about Ramsey’s research findings. She also raised questions about the efficacy of heat treatment processes to combat mites, pointing out that such processes may not only damage the sperm viability of queens, but also brood and drones. Her research was also funded in part by the BCHPA and its Boone Hodgson Wilkinson Trust Fund. She reviewed some research she conducted with others on why queens may fail early, especially when they are subject to variations in temperature. McAfee is one of Leonard’s former UBC students. Stan is also the BCHPA’s provincial representative on the Canadian Honey Council. He delved into the exceedingly complex issues of import regulations and compliance for anyone wanting to follow in his footsteps. He’s also a significant exporter of B.C.-made nucleus colonies to Alberta beekeepers every spring. ![]() Stan, who co-owns Flying Dutchman Honey on Vancouver Island with his wife Cheryl, has become one of the largest importers of package bees and queens to B.C. ![]()
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