Poly nuc

Main concern

The colony is growing well in the poly nuc, but space needs monitoring as the population expands.

Next inspection aim

Confirm continued healthy brood development and assess if the colony needs to be moved to a full-sized hive.

What to bring

• Smoker and fuel
• Hive tool
• Clean nitrile gloves
• Record sheet or tablet
• Camera or phone for photos if needed
• Spare super or deep box if transfer is decided by lead beekeeper

Step-by-step plan

1. Observe the entrance for foraging activity and signs of orientation flights.
2. Smoke the entrance lightly and wait one minute before opening.
3. Remove the lid and gently remove the dummy board to create space for frame manipulation.
4. Inspect frames to check for recent eggs and healthy brood to confirm the queen is laying.
5. Check for signs of congestion or queen cells that might indicate swarming intent.
6. Assess whether the current nuc box still has sufficient space for the remaining summer season.
7. Close the hive carefully, ensuring no bees are crushed.

Do not do

• Do not remove or destroy any queen cells found without lead beekeeper approval.
• Do not perform an inspection if the weather is cold, raining, or exceptionally windy.
• Do not transfer the colony to a larger hive without consulting a lead beekeeper.
• Do not leave frames of brood exposed to direct sun for long periods.

Escalate if

• Queen cells are found.
• The brood pattern becomes patchy or eggs are missing.
• Signs of disease or unusual brood appearance are noted.
• The colony shows sudden aggression.
• The nuc becomes overly congested with bees.