232 BEES AND BEE-KEEPING. 



ably in a perfectly dry, well ventilated room. The 

 boxes should be kept closed perfectly tight to prevent 

 flies, roaches or moths from entering. 



CHAPTER XVII. 



ENEMIES OF BEES. 



The two greatest enemies of bees are, first, the 

 general ignorance of mankind of their natural habits, 

 requirements and proper mode of management to 

 render them assistance when needful, and supply their 

 wants when required ; in keeping them in hives un- 

 suited to their natural wants, and in an unprotected 

 manner both from the weather and from insects ; and 

 in taking honey from them and permitting them to 

 starve the next spring for want of it. On these points 

 man (although not intending it), becomes a great 

 enemy to bees. The moth and worm have been and 

 are great pests to bee-keepers, and great enemies of 

 bees; yet since we have been using our improved 

 movable comb-hives, and found the efficacy of feed- 

 ing bees, thereby keeping them strong and vigorous, 

 we experience but little loss or trouble from the 

 worms. So long as a colony is properly organized 

 and has plenty of honey, they will protect themselves. 

 But should the worms make a lodgment in any of 

 our hives, lift out each comb separately, and destroy 

 all that can be found; then feed the colony with a 

 little syrup or honey, to stimulate the bees to greater 



