The mites, which are tiny, eight-legged creatures that feed on bee saliva, have been wreaking havoc on bee colonies worldwide, decimating entire colonies and leaving beekeepers with a dwindling supply of bees to harvest honey and other bee products.

The Asian Mite Menace

The Asian longhorned bee mite, also known as the varroa mite, is a highly invasive species that has been linked to the decline of bee populations globally. The mites are known to weaken bees by feeding on their saliva, which can lead to a range of health problems, including reduced fertility, increased susceptibility to disease, and even death. Beekeepers have reported that the mites can cause bees to become disoriented, leading to a decrease in their ability to navigate and communicate effectively. Key symptoms of varroa mite infestation include:

The Impact on Beekeepers

The varroa mite infestation has had a devastating impact on beekeepers worldwide. Many have reported losing entire colonies to the mites, leaving them with little to no bees to harvest honey and other products.

The conversation will focus on the book “The Beekeeper’s Bible: A Comprehensive Guide for the Home Beekeeper,” by author and beekeeper, Dr. Diana Beresford-Kroeger. The discussion will center on the topic of bee health, biodiversity, and the role of humans in preserving the natural world. Please generate a detailed and comprehensive text based on the event. Upcoming Event: “About the Bees: A Conversation” On February 26th, Book Passage, in collaboration with Dominican University of California’s Institute for Leadership Studies and the Women Leadership and Philanthropy Council, is proud to present a unique and engaging conversation event, “About the Bees: A Conversation.” This highly anticipated talk will bring together renowned author and beekeeper, Dr. Diana Beresford-Kroeger, and celebrated author, Marla Spivak, for a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of bees and their role in our ecosystem.

Etta is a retired schoolteacher and has a deep love for nature and the outdoors. She lives a simple life, surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness. Lilja, on the other hand, is a city girl who has grown up in the midst of urban chaos. The contrast between their two worlds is stark, and their initial interactions are marked by misunderstandings and cultural differences.

A World of Contrasts

Etta’s life is one of simplicity and harmony with nature. Her straw bale farmhouse is a testament to her love for the land and her desire to live in tune with the natural world. The house is made of natural materials, and the surrounding landscape is teeming with wildlife. Etta spends her days tending to her garden, foraging for wild herbs, and watching the stars at night. She is a woman who has found her place in the world, and her life is filled with a sense of purpose and contentment.

A City Girl’s Perspective

Lilja, on the other hand, is a city girl who has grown up in the midst of urban chaos. She is used to the sounds of car horns, sirens, and the constant hum of technology. Her life is one of noise and distraction, and she has grown accustomed to the fast pace of city living.

She drew inspiration from various sources, including her own experiences as a beekeeper, observations of bee behavior, and the work of other scientists and researchers.

The Making of a Masterpiece

McNeil’s fascination with bees began at a young age, when she started keeping bees as a hobby. As she delved deeper into the world of apiculture, she became increasingly captivated by the intricate social dynamics of bee colonies.

“I wanted to create a sense of community and shared experience among the bees, as well as a sense of individuality and distinctiveness among the characters.”

The World of Apiculture

In the world of apiculture, bees are not just a source of honey and wax, but a complex social entity with a rich history and culture. For centuries, humans have been fascinated by the intricate social structures and behaviors of bees, and many have attempted to learn from them. In her novel, McNeil draws upon this fascination to create a unique and captivating world of bee-keeping and apiculture.

The Inspiration Behind the Story

McNeil’s inspiration for the novel came from her own experiences as a beekeeper and her fascination with the social structures of bees. She spent many hours observing the behavior of her bees, learning about their communication methods, and studying the different types of bees that exist. This knowledge and experience formed the foundation of her story, which is woven together with Finnish wisdom and lore. Key elements of Finnish wisdom and lore that feature in the novel include: + The concept of “sisu” (perseverance and determination) + The importance of community and shared experience + The value of individuality and distinctiveness + The use of natural materials and traditional techniques in bee-keeping

The Characters

The characters in McNeil’s novel are a diverse and complex group, each with their own unique personality and role within the bee community.

The Event: A Conversation with the Bees

The event “About the Bees: A Conversation” is an engaging and informative evening that brings together the fascinating world of bees and the people who study them. The event will take place on February 26th at 6 p.m. at Dominican University of California.

The Host: Dr. Marla Spivak

Dr. Marla Spivak, a renowned bee biologist, will be the host and speaker for the evening. Dr. Spivak is a professor at the University of Minnesota and has spent her career studying the behavior and biology of bees. Her research focuses on the social structure and communication of honey bees. Dr.