Department of Apiculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bangalore-560 065, Karnataka (India).
The colony establishment, nest building activity and foraging activity of little bee, Apis florea F. was determined around Bangalore rural district, Karnataka during 1997–98. The colonies were well established in respect of brood area, pollen store, honey store and bee population during September to December. Similarly, the dearth period was recorded during May-July. A. florea build their nests preferably on shrubs and small trees at the heights between 3–6 m above the ground level. The comb building activity was continuous and greater during 60–120 days from the date of settlement. The maximum comb size was 26. 54 x 23.48 cm. The foraging activity was continuous and the greater pollen foragers were observed during mid-day and evening hours. The greater pollen foragers were recorded during October and that of nectar foragers during December. The foragers carried greater pollen loads during October and nectar during December.
