Bees on display in a Mexican waterpark

[D Coates]

I just got back from Cancun (to a snowstorm). While there the family went to a natural water park. http://www.xelha.com/ While walking on a path we came up on a native apiary. It was set up under cover on a log stand. There were 6 small log hives that you could touch if so inclined. They each had one hole that was large enough for only one bee at a time. All of the hives were active and in no way aggressive or defensive. They had a large display in both Spanish and English that discussed these native bees and how they were part of Mayan culture.

I unfortunately didn't get pictures as I was walking around in nothing but my swimtrunks but it was very impressive. On a side note the park was very pleasant and I'd recommend it to anyone who's looking for a natural water park to take the family to.

[AllenF]

What kind of bees were the native Mexican bees?

[D Coates]

It mentioned them but I don't remember.  They were very small, mostly back, kind of fuzzy and known for having entrances that were one bee size.  Literally as soon as one flew out another one (guard?) would poke out his head to fill the hole and just look out.  The were little spots of what appeared to be mud just outside the entrance.  The information on the display next to them indicated they were not known for their honey production but would make enough to be used as medicine and sweeteners for royalty.  I really wish I would have had my cell phone/camera.

[HomeBru]

They have a bit more info on their website: http://www.xelha.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=57&Itemid=73

"Central America and Australia are the only two regions in the world to house Meliponini, a variety of honey-producing, stingless bees."

[AllenF]

Very cool info.   

[D Coates]

Homebru,

Nice job finding that.  I poked areound a little and didn't find it, I thought it didn't exist on the website.

[mudlakee]

I was there a couple years ago, saw the bees. While we were there there was a large number of pheasants hatching in a glass cage in the main entrance. I wish I was there now. We have 5 feet of snow on the ground 10 degrees and 1 more foot on the way in the next 12 hours. Please move to New York we need the tax money. Come on spring.  Tony

[Dexterjc]

I remember seeing those when I was there in '09. They were very active when I was there.

[AllenF]

Sounds like a popular place.