In a message dated 8/30/2003 4:47:07 AM Pacific Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: But how often do we think of Chris' point - that when u handle one colony you must to an extent pick up its unique scent, particularly on your hands, to an extent on your jacket . Then we open the next and thrust that scent into the heart of the new colony. I don't use my smoker on my hives unless I need bees to move or get squashed. I have it lit, however, whenever I am working the bees. I use it on my gloves in between hives. I also use it to mask the smell of a squished bee or a bee sting. Kathy Cox, Northern California, Italian, 18 hives :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::