Jerry,

Would it be reasonable to try and differentiate between "Abscond" and 
"Desert" a brood base (Hive).

IMHO, Bees may be just folding up shop and deserting the location.

Regards,

Peter

****************************************************
* General Information About BEE-L is available at: *
* http://www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l/default.htm   *
****************************************************