I used to carefully search for spots to place my hives. I wanted early morning sun and afternoon shade. Anymore, I am leaning toward no shade at all. Our temperatures here range from the low to high 90's most of the summer. A week or 2 will go over 100. It might be an illusion, or wishful thinking, but the higher heat seems to slow the mites down some. The bees are making decent crops, everyone is busy, and they are usually in good humor. The less mites I have to battle, the better I like it. I just throw down a 4-way pallet, and set the hive or hives on it. It's a little more uncomfortable for me when I work them, but it just makes the beer taste that much better afterwards!! bahahahahahahaha