> It's my observation that there is a correlation between bigger populations, more stores, and increased defensiveness. Not always the case. I often have hives with 6-10 supers that are easily handled and have, on the odd occasion, had a 4 frame nuc set about me. > Given that Top bar hives are of a fixed size, with limited room for surplus, this particular condition is never met. I have just reviewed a book on TBH where the author says that they are not for beekeepers who are 'hell-bent' on getting large crops of honey. My view is that the amount of honey gathered is a direct measure of the colonies health and well-being. Best wishes Peter 52°14'44.44"N, 1°50'35"W *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html