Rod, The mite drop you describe does not sound serious - possibly a light reinfestation or mites that esacaped contact with the Apistan treatment. With limited brood in the hive at this time of year unless you can see hundreds of mites running over the combs I would not spend money on a further acaricide treatment this year. The bees will not be in immediate mortal danger. Next spring, as soon as it's warm enough for brood to start building up, do an ether roll test and then decide on your method, preferably methods of mite control. Max Dr Max Watkins Vita (Europe) Limited Tel 44 (0) 1256 473177 Brook House, Alençon Link, Fax 44 (0) 1256 473179 Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 7RD, UK http://www.vita.demon.co.uk