>>sounds like you might be into what could be happening, and would certainly make for changing combs out... I was talking about a fellow beekeeper - I have never used Coumophos or Apistan in my hives - who has not replaced his combs in some 26 years and has used both chemicals in alternate years since varroa showed up. Even the supply houses recommend replacing the wax every 3-5 years... In removing colonies from homes, I am always impressed with how healthy the bees and the brood look on uncontaminated comb. Albeit it's subjective, you'd swear such bees were happier. They certainly display a happier disposition. Waldemar -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and other info ---