Hi Dave Like Hugo, I think there is still hope. I suffer from paranoia each winter fully expecting the worst. Instead of knocking on the hive, which my father advised me not to do for the same reasons Hugo mentioned, I have instead resorted to a reliable Littman Cardiology II stethoscope, which I have found to be useful for more than just on my regular job. The 'scope has been so successful that I have even managed to listen in on quite a few intimate conversations that actually go on between the bees as they while away those long, quiet winter days and nights. And I come away from the hive feeling much better...give it a try. Joanne Hulbert [log in to unmask]