Many thanks to those who answered, especially to D. McBride, who describes exactly my situation, and gives me hope that I can rescue this poor weak colony after all. Pierre MacKay :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::