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Author Topic: Russians or Italians  (Read 1395 times)

Offline mat299

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Russians or Italians
« on: January 12, 2013, 09:37:58 am »
I have an opportunity to get some Russians this spring and I would like to know if there are any opinions on whether I should or not.  I have never had Russians before and I am wondering what the pros and cons might be.  I have some Italians now.  Would it be ok to have both species in the same area or should i split them up?

Offline AllenF

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Re: Russians or Italians
« Reply #1 on: January 12, 2013, 09:47:05 am »
I have tried both.  Now they are all just mixed up out there.   I don't believe Russians are any more hot tempered as some say.  I do remember a whole lot more propolis with them.   Glued everything.   I kept them together and by now they are a all mutts. 

Offline Jim134

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Re: Russians or Italians
« Reply #2 on: January 12, 2013, 10:29:25 am »
This may help you and this as from a member of the Russian Honeybee Breeders Association, Inc.

http://www.warmcolorsapiary.com/Documents/RussianManagement07.pdf

http://www.warmcolorsapiary.com/Documents/PackageManagement07.pdf

http://www.russianbreeders.org/members.html




                  BEE HAPPY Jim 134 :)
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Franklin County Beekeepers Association MA. http://www.franklinmabeekeepers.org/

Offline bailey

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Re: Russians or Italians
« Reply #3 on: January 12, 2013, 03:16:29 pm »
First generation Russians are a little hot. Second generation are mean as hell!!   That's been my experience.
They make a lot of honey though!   I wouldn't have them again though. 
My experience is with one hive and the few splits I made with them.   I have since removed those from my program. 
Bailey
most often i find my greatest source of stress to be OPS  ( other peoples stupidity )

It is better to keep ones mouth shut and be thought of as a fool than to open ones mouth and in so doing remove all doubt.

Offline oliver

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Re: Russians or Italians
« Reply #4 on: January 12, 2013, 04:24:16 pm »
Found them to be no more aggresive than my italians. They seem to do better in cooler weather, not so good when its hot..