In a message dated 5/24/2003 3:19:27 PM Pacific Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

> Yes,  agreed, which is why sticky boards are such a clumsy method and a
> simpler method is needed.  Permanent plastic wipe-clean trays under permanent
> mesh floors take say 15 to 30 seconds to pull out , glance at for abnormal
> amount of mites, wipe and return - and a monthly check is sufficient to show up
> the colonies getting infected from outside.

Check out the ad in Bee Culture for the Trapping Tray by Serge Labesque. I
use it and it is wonderful. Tells me everything I need to know without opening
the hive. With the moat of oil, ants, earwigs, mites, spiders, etc. are stopped
from invading the hive. See pollen, the queen is laying! Can see evidence of
robbing and wax moths. Up to 30% of mites are lost from the hive with open
mesh bottom boards. The moat of oil makes sure the mites don't climb back on a
bee to reinfest. Well made and a great addition to the colony. Check it out.

Kathy Cox

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