Well I admit I lost two swarms last week and haven't had a very clean record in past years either. I like to think a few swarms formally owned by me are still out there. All of the fragmented forest land (and vacant housing form the economy) is making ideal spots for them to nest. I trust a few of the new beekeepers from this years beeginners course have misplaced a few hive packages as well.
So far, i am of opinion they are feral. The queens are half the size of my Minn hygenics, workers are almost black and small. Those that arent black, have almost no bands, but a black rear-end as well.I have become aware of two old feral hives w/in a block of audobon fire hall, and three on the land that will become Magnolia Commons too.
