284 RACES OF BEES. 
though they will do so if intentionally annoyed, or irritated, 
or improperly treated. 
Spinola speaks of the more peaceable disposition or this 
bee; and Columella, 1800 years ago, had noticed the same 
peculiarity, describing it as ‘‘ mitior moribus,’’ (milder in 
habits). When once irntated, however, they become very 
cross. 
Sth. 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 incredible adroitness. 
Spinola speaks of these bees as ‘‘velociores 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 prompt- 
ly than common bees. 
7th. 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 respecis it had no peculiar merits. Its introduction 
into this country, has helped to constitute the new era in 
bee-keeping, and has imparted much interest to its pursuit. 
It is one of the causes which have enabled America to 
surpass the world in the production of honey. 
6553. Their appearance can be described as follows: 
