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Main concern

Queen cells have been recorded, and the queen has not been sighted recently. While eggs are present, we must ensure the colony is not preparing to swarm or performing a supersedure.

Next inspection aim

Identify the type of queen cells present and confirm the queen's status without unnecessary disturbance.

What to bring

• Smoker
• Hive tool
• Clean gloves
• Record sheet or app
• Camera or phone

Step-by-step plan

1. Observe hive activity from the entrance for 5 minutes before opening.
2. Smoke the entrance lightly and open the hive carefully.
3. Locate the queen cells and determine if they are play cups (empty) or active (containing larvae/royal jelly).
4. Carefully inspect the frames for the queen, but do not search excessively if it disturbs the colony.
5. Verify the age and consistency of the eggs and larvae to confirm a laying queen is present.
6. Assess the temperament of the bees during the inspection.
7. Close the hive gently and record findings immediately.

Do not do

• Do not remove or destroy any queen cells until a lead beekeeper has reviewed the situation.
• Do not perform an aggressive search for the queen if the colony becomes defensive.
• Do not split or manipulate the brood box without prior lead beekeeper approval.

Escalate if

• You find multiple queen cells containing larvae.
• The colony shows sudden, significant aggression.
• You find no eggs and the colony appears to be queenless.
• You are unsure how to interpret the type of queen cells found.