Hives were very damp and moldy when I opened the dead hives. They were strong earlier with plenty of food packed away.
RESPONSE: When colonies die the combs do get moldy and honey (if any) will ferment and by the time we discover the loss the comb looks terrible. BUT give it to bees to clean up and you will be amazed how they will recover that comb. Drawn comb is our most valuable resource- don’t cut it out, nor throw it away.