Decapitated bees...

Actually the first and third photo are different frames with a very similar pattern. I suspect after all the info I have collected, that the hive has collapsed due to mites. My other hives have suddenly tested very high for mite counts (I retreated immediately with FormicPro). Next year I will switch to Armitraz. I have heard that mites do not develop resistance to it.

The frames had wax foundation to start with (no plastic). The hive was started this year with an imported package purchased in the NEK and a queen raised in VT.

Hive wasn't robbed. Too much nectar in cells, and capped honey not ripped apart. First and third photo are the same comb. Mostly drone. Was that a foundation-less comb? Were there any cells of capped brood left...even just a few? What is the history of this colony? When was the last time you saw it queen-right?

Please report back their findings. Peter

Yes - I sent a sample to the UVM lab. Curious to hear.

Wow, very sad to see all the dead bees. Have you considered sending some dead bees to the UVM bee lab for analysis. May have been a virus ? With some capped honey untouched it might not be robbing. Is this a top bar hive ? You might also contact Brooke Decker to get her opinion ? (Vt.Apiary Inspector).

I took the hive apart today. It definitely looks like something robbed the hive. The entrance had been reduced. But nevertheless, something got in. There were parts of the brood frames wax/comb missing in strange formations (not like a mouse at all). Almost like a very wide and smooth caterpillar path ..

Wasps, hornets, yellow jackets. They are all carnivores. I suspect your hives have been robbed and decimated. It happens...weak hives with wide open entrances are hard to defend. Been there, done that !!