ENEMIES OF THE BEE II5 
The Blind Louse.—This is a parasite fairly 
common in this country, and the bees, both 
hive and wild varieties, are favoured by it as 
hosts. Although it is said to be harmless, it 
must be treated with suspicion, and if its presence 
in a hive be detected steps should be taken to 
get rid of it. If tobacco smoke be blown into 
the hive, the parasite will loosen its tenacious 
grip and fall to the floorboard of the hive. 
Its destruction is then easy. Before the floor- 
board is replaced it should be washed with 
hot water into which a few drops of carbolic 
acid have been dropped. 
Pollen Mites.—Amongst the smallest of 
the insects visible to the naked eye these little 
creatures work—as their name suggests—among 
the pollen stored by the bees. They are 
about the size of a grain of pollen and prefer 
the pollen when it is damp either with honey 
or water. 
It is a commendable practice to keep 
combs that contain pollen by themselves when 
they are not in use. 
Spiders.—In this country the spider is not 
to be so dreaded by the bee-keeper as it is in 
hotter climates. For cleanliness’ sake, however, 
it is well to keep the hive clear of its webs. 
Green Fly.—It is the bee-keeper rather 
