DISEASES AND ENEMIES OF BEES. 229 
THE BEE-KILLER. 
In the Western and Southern States bees suffer greatly 
from a two-winged, very voracious insect known as the 
*Bee-killer.” It is the 
Asilus Missouriensis of Ri- 
ley, and is given in fig. 94, 
of the natural size, from 
Riley’s ‘First Report on 
the Insects of Missouri.” 
Its general color is yellow- 
ish brown or yellowish grey, 
and but little is known of 
its history and habits. It 
pounces upon the bee while 
on the wing, and takes its 
victim to some plant, or even to the ground where, with 
its stout proboscis, it sucks out the inside of the bee and 
leaves but an empty shell. Though occasionally found 
in the Eastern States, this insect has fortunately not be- 
come common. But little is known as to the best methods 
of destroying it ; bee-keepers should be on the watch for 
this enemy, and destroy it wherever it is found. 
Fig. 94.—BeE KILLER. 
RATS AND MICE. 
Rats and mice are never troublesome, except in cold 
weather. The entrances of all hives standing out, are 
much too small to admit a rat. No damage need be ap- 
prehended from them except when the hives are in the 
house. They appear to be fond of honey, and when it is 
accessible, will eat several pounds in a short time. 
Mice will often enter the hive on the out-door stand, 
when not excluded, and make extensive depredations. 
Sometimes, after cutting a space in the combs, they will 
make their nests there. The animal heat created by the 
