I wonder how often Drone laying can be traced back to the use of artificially inseminated queens. If AI queens are only used as breeders it won't matter if they run out of sperm, if you try and run them for a year or so they will and it does. I'm not convinced AI gives you the longevity even if it gives you the quality. -- Dave Black Blacks Bee Gardens, Guildford, GU1 4RN. UK.