>Tonight a friend called with a problem. He had checked his hives today >and found one completely empty of any bees, dead or alive. No brood I had this happen to one of my hives last year. It is most likely caused by Varroa mite infestation. If this is the case, it will be alright to replace the bees. But if you do, be sure to treat with Apistan as directed on the package. It could have been Tracheal mite. But not likely as there would have been other signs. Hope this helps. gh [log in to unmask] [log in to unmask]