294 



RACES OF BEES. 



are hardly ever found in their combSj while they are occa- 

 sionally found in the combs of even the strongest colonies of 

 common bees. Their great vigilance is due to the mildness of 

 the climate of Italy, whose "Wiaters never destroy the moth. 

 Having to defend themselves against a more numerous enemy, 

 they are more watchful than the bees of colder regions. 4th. 

 They are less apt to sting. Not only are they less apt, but 

 scarcely are they inclined to stmg, though they will do so if 

 intentionally annoyed, or irritated, or improperly treated. 



Spinola speaks of the more peaceable disposition of this 

 bee; and Columella, 1800 years ago, has noticed the same 

 peculiarity, describing it as "mitior morihus," (milder in 

 habits). When once irritated, however, they become very 

 cross. 



5th. They are more industrious. Of this fact, all the 

 results go to confirm Dzierzon's statements, and satisfy us 

 of the superiority of this kind in every point of view. 6th. 

 They are more disposed to rob than common bees, and more 

 courageous and active in self-defense. They strive on all 

 hands to force their way into colonies of common bees; but 

 when strange bees attack their hives, they fight with great 

 fierceness, and with an mcredible adroitness. 



Spinola speaks of these bees as "velodorcb motu'' — quicker 

 in their motions than the common bees. 



They however sooner grow tired of hunting, where nothing 

 can be gained; and if all the plunder is put out of their 

 reach, they will give up the attempt at robbing (664;) more 

 promptly than common bees. 



Tth. Aside from their peaceableness, they are more easily 

 handled than the common bees, as they cling to their combs 

 and do not rush about, or cluster here and there, or fall to the 

 ground, as the common bees do. 



It is hardly necessary to add, that this species of the honey- 

 bee, so much more productive than the common kind, is of 

 very great value in all sections of our country. Its superior 

 docility makes it worthy of high regard, even if in other 



