> ... I'm now curious about oxalic...
> I gather that 1 kilo of oxalic acid hydrate, and 10 kilos of water
> and 10 kilos of sugar would make about 2.5 litres and treat 2500/50 =
> 50 strong colonies using the drizzle method.

Since I came up with this, I found this on the French list, regarding using
oaxalic acid to bleach beeswax for candles.  Excuse the translation:

" the safety instructions concerning the use of oxalic acid, valid for
professionals and non-professionals, require the use of gloves classified for
strong acids, and wearing of a mask.

Oxalic acid, although present in many plants, is classified as one of most
dangerous in toxicology (mortal at 5 G) with a toxic vapor, especially in
boiling.   Attention therefore, with its use in concentrations over 1 gram per
liter. Work should be done under a hood or with good ventillation."
(courtesy François Chataux).

This might be of interest to those either bleaching wax or trying oxalic for
mite control.

Additionally, I received this today:

"I read about your interest in oxalic acid in bee-L. Do not overdose if you
use it in sugar solution! You will probably end up with many very weak
hives. We have been trying to find an optimal dose but it seems to be
difficult as the lethal dose for bees is very near to the lethal dose to
the mite. This problem seems to be pronounced in cold climates. I can try
to find more information for you from my archives if you are interested."

I am hoping the writer will be able to shed more light on the use of oxalic and
the problems associated with this otherwise effective method.

allen