In a message dated 16/11/2006 20:43:14 GMT Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: <<Chris, You must have meant the other Mike. I, mws1112004, have to this point never used strips so cannot comment anecdotally about the practice. Mike in LA>> That was me; strips have not been a success in the past, unless sandwiched between two straight combs. In which case they tell me very little about how the bees would build if left undisturbed. I may try again, but right now the big question I want to answer is whether mating success will improve if I really wallop the mites a few weeks before I raise queens, so they have unparasitised drones available. Regards, Robert Brenchley Birmingham UK -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and other info ---