This is a total game changer for me!
This explains so many questions I have, and also explains zero mite tests. This brings into light the level of drift among the colonies and the hazard that presents.
It explains the problems I have seen with testing producing somewhat inconsistent results last season. We've been told to, and most of the studies have been made testing the wrong bees!
I now fear my small surviors, while they may not have a measurable mite load, are sick with virus.
I am also concerned about how drift will influence the rest of my yard. One colony in particular, I am tempted to move away from my yard or euthanize. Their appearance is lethargic, compared to the other hives. I posted earlier about this same colony's health issues. They are not touching the Pollen or fondant I gave them either.
By comparison the rest of my yard appears healthy, the survivor colonies that were whimpy in fall have turned out strong and early.
This will define new treatment strategy - Oxalic Acid Vapor treatment at night when the drones are in the box? Not during the day when they are out flying. Combined with Swedish sponges for low level long term hive treatment?
Treatment may help, however I'm still convinced the final solution is in genetics. And the problem with genetics is due to the migratory/package bee industry flooding us with the same "commercial" genetics every year. We need mutts not hybridized bees. Think about it, the best dogs are often mutts....