> > 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] > If you haven't got a stethoscope, you can use an ordinary plastic hore - put one end throgh the entrance and the other end to your ear... Regards / [log in to unmask]