In a message dated 97-03-28 06:03:44 EST, you write:
 
<<   Today I noticed that there were a bunch of white corn kernals at the
  entrance, almost like mummified larvae.
   >>
    A bunch  how many?  If the brood nest expands beyond what the girls can
 cover some get chilled and removed.
     It makes me nervous too when I see it but it is usually perfectly
normal. >>
 
    Chilled brood doesn't mummify into white "kernals."   Chilled brood can
happen, when bees are building fast, and there is a storm or sudden cold
spell.  But the dead brood turns black, and just rots.
 
    Really hurts the hive when this happens.  Sometimes they are so
demoralized, they can't get it cleaned out, and the hive just dies.
 
   Steady spring feeding helps overcome this, as the hives have more energy
resources to provide heat.  It usually is worst, when hive reserves are
limited, or the cluster contracts away from the honey supply.
 
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29554        (Dave & Jan's Pollination Service,  Pot o'Gold Honey Co.)
 
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