>Hi.  Last fall I treated my 140 colonies with extender patties for tracheal
>mite and AFB control.  I am noticing that many colonies now have about half
>the pattie remaining, but I'm not sure if this terramycin is still active.
>Should I remove the residue and treat again, or will the residue be
>effective thru early spring?
>
>Does anyone have knowledge or an opinion regarding terramycin stability to
>help with the above question?  Thank you.
>
>Jim King, Riegelsville, PA
 
 
I'd leave it, as long as the TM wasn't long past its expiration date.  The
shortening protects it from moisture, so I presume it's more or less
"sealed" and stable.  Just replace it when it's all gone.  Actually,
sometimes I find portions of patties that are all dry and crusty which the
bees have tried to propolize over, or its covered with dirt.  I'll either
mix it up a little, adding some new stuff, or just chuck it and replace it.