Hmmm.....there are some pests that are pests and have no real place in 
the food chain, but there are alot others that do.  Usually, in the case of 
specific pests that bother our edible plants, as food for other species such 
as birds, lizards, etc.  Which, in turn, might not be a pest at all.  I like 
to try and look at all alternatives before I just go out and blatantly kill 
something.  That's been mankind's signature on this planet for too long, and 
look at the terrible trouble we're in.  Did you know that there are some 
birds that prefer certain kinds of caterpillars and worms?  That they will 
eat just those types and no other?  It's true.  I just try to remember that 
this world is a macrocosm so vast that the little parts of it are overlooked. 
 Usually in our own favor.  Which in the long run might not be as good for us 
as we seem to believe right here and now.  Right up to, and including, the 
fire ants.  
    I don't tollerate them in my garden because of my daughter, but I don't 
go after them in other parts of the yard.  I let my dad do that if he 
chooses.  Though they do have a tendancy to make large mounds that can really 
play havoc with your lawn mower.  Not to mention the mower if he happens to 
walk through that mess afterwards.  
    The fire ant, I believe, is a species that developed in South America, 
and has been steadily moving north out of the southern port cities, where 
they managed to land after hitching a ride on freighters.  And that's a 
frightening thought too.  If they've done so well here in the states, and 
they have done exceedingly well, is this an indication that the African 
Killer Bee hybrid will as well?  So far reports in Texas and Southern 
California and Mexico seem to suggest that they might.  
    Like any gardener I see the common honey bee as a blessing.  I would hate 
to try and go around and pollinate every little flower and blossom in my 
garden.  I don't have the patience, the stamina and the skill to do this 
exacting task.  But the bee has.  
    Alone, or even in groups as large as a hundred, the African bees are not 
dangerous.  It is when they are swarming, or you are near their nest that you 
have to worry.  If the queen herself feels threatened then you will become a 
target.  Still I don't think I want to worry about them.  Not yet anyway.  
                                       Bright Blessings
                                       Kat
--- GEcho/32 1.20/Pro
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