Drippy propolis?

[luvin honey]

One of my 3 hives has me concerned (well 2, but that's for another topic). It seems to be hauling out a lot of dead bees, and these are not drones. When I peek inside, the population seems to be down by about 80%, no matter the time of day. I haven't gotten inside--which I need to do as soon as time and weather allow--but a peek in the back (a topbar) shows dripping down the sides of the hive. It looks and feels like propolis, but I didn't know propolis dripped. I'm also concerned about nosema. The bees appear fine. This is my first year, however, so I would be very grateful for ideas.

[Scadsobees]

I don't know about the hive population...mites peak this time of year, and this can cause population crashes in the bees, as well as other diseases can cause problems. 

As far as the propolis goes...I do get propolis that drips/runs as well.  As long as it stays somewhat warm I'm assuming that it will have the tendancy to drip like any thick, gouey but not quite solid substance will.  Especially if there are/were hot days in the summer.

And when I say drips....just a little bit of propolis that runs down the inside from the cracks between boxes, its usually solid when I experience it, or at least solid but malleable.  I assume that that is normal.

[luvin honey]

I've really inspected the dead bees, the ones on the observation window and those sitting on the front porch. I see no signs of mites from that eyeball observation. Nothing appears to be wrong with the bees except a sharply reduced population. Once I get in, I will find out if they are queenless. They got quite crowded in late summer, but I was too busy to do another split.

I think this must be propolis, then. The hive smells good. Any other signs I would look for regarding nosema? Thanks!

[Scadsobees]

It is not uncommon for beehives that are overcrowded to swarm in the late summer.  You'll know if you see old queen cells.