Concerning comb replacement, Dennis Murrell said "It appears that feral hives are recycled about every 3 years or so. That might be a better lifespan for comb." Dennis, I have also observed that feral comb is never as black as some I have seen in the hives of commercial beekeepers. But, do you have any evidence that feral bees recycle comb? Or, is your comment based on the color/condition of feral comb? I just can't imagine 'feral' bees having an instinct in this regard that our 'domesticated' bees do not have. And once bees get into a climate as far north as Upstate New York, let alone Vermont, Maine, Canada, etc. wax moths are not really a problem so 3-5 year recycling principally by exposure to these guys is unlikely. -- Lloyd Spear Owner Ross Rounds, Inc. Manufacture of equipment for round comb honey sections, Sundance Pollen Traps, and producer of Sundance custom labels. Contact your dealer or www.RossRounds.com :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::