38 
(4} Of these bees, the only one which need be considered is the 
large rock bee (Apis dorsata). ; 
(5) There is fairly definite evidence that the numbers of this bee 
have suffered a steady reduction in the coffee districts of late years, 
and that : . 
(6) Such diminution is due to (a) to the reduction of suitable 
nesting-places owing to the opening up of the coffee districts and (b) 
to the systematic persecution of the colonies of bees in certain districts 
for the sake of honey and wax. : 
(7) It is not practicable to take the honey without destroying 
the bees, bat , 
(8) It is possible to collect the wax without injury to the bees 
after the latter have deserted their combs which they do at regular 
times of the year. 
(9) In districts in which destruction of these bees occurs on any 
considerable scale, it were well that the Forest department be requested 
to refuse the issue of rights to collect honey and wax in forest areas 
except under special restrictions as regards the number of nests to be 
taken or the time of year at which they may be taken. 
(10) Planters should regard bees as useful allies and do all 
possible to protect and encourage them within the limits of their own 
estates. 
(11) In any experiments in bee-keeping, the Indian bee (Apis 
indica) is likely to prove the most suitable. (1t may be added that the 
Agricultural department will always be willing to assist would-be 
bee-keepers with advice and help as far as possible.) 
T. BatnsriacE FLEercuer. 
