THE HONEYBEE AND BEES IN GENERAL 259 



The larvae feed principally on pollen, and the cocoons and cast- 

 off larval skins in the brood combs. They make burrows in the 

 comb and line them with silk as a protection from the bees. 



The bee louse, Braula cceca, is parasitic on bees in Mediter- 

 ranean countries, but thus far has not gained a foothold in 

 America. The bee lice may weaken the queen by sucking the 

 juices from her body. Other insects, such as dragon flies, ants, 

 and wasps, attack bees, especially in tropical and subtropical 

 regions. Spiders frequently capture bees in their webs. 



Birds are accused of using honeybees for food, and one species, 

 the kingbird, is called the " bee martin," because of its supposed 

 fondness for them. The percentage of honeybees eaten by 

 kingbirds is, however, very small, and amply repaid by the many 

 other insects they devour. 



Toads and lizards are important enemies of the honeybee, but 

 should not be destroyed when captured near the hives, since their 

 removal to a safe distance will prevent them from devouring bees 

 and give them a chance to be of benefit by destroying noxious 

 insects. Mice prey upon pollen, honey, and bees during the 

 winter. Hives also need to be protected against rats, skunks, 

 and bears. 



Honeybees, in times of a scarcity of pollen and honey, may 

 become robbers, ruthlessly attacking other hives and carrying 

 away the stores contained in them. 



The Diseases of Bees. Bees are subject to several important 

 diseases. Chief among these are European foul brood and 

 American foul brood which are infectious diseases due to 

 bacteria. These microscopic organisms attack the eggs and the 

 tissues of the larvae. The diseases may spread from hive to hive 

 throughout the apiary. Dysentery must also be guarded against. 

 Improper food and long confinement in the hive are mainly 

 responsible for this affliction. 



