Queen Bees: Practical Guide
2025-04-09
Learn all about queen bees: how they are selected, introduced into hives, and managed for optimal colony health and productivity.
The queen bee is the central figure of the hive. She is the only fertile female and her genetics greatly impact colony behavior, health, and honey yield.
Queen selection
- Queens are bred by experienced beekeepers, selecting lines that are disease-resistant and productive.
- Ideal traits: high egg-laying capacity, longevity, calm temperament, and low swarming tendency.
Types of queens
1. Mated queen: ready for direct introduction into a colony.
2. Virgin queen: not yet mated, used in advanced breeding practices.
3. Queen cells: used for rearing or natural replacement.
Introducing the queen
1. Place the queen in a cage with candy and a few attendants.
2. Insert the cage between central frames after removing the old queen (if present).
3. Wait 3–5 days for the bees to release her by eating the candy.
4. Check for acceptance and egg-laying after a week.
Long-term queen management
- Replace queens every 1–2 years to maintain colony vitality.
- Color marking helps track the queen’s age (e.g., blue for 2025).
- Minimize hive disturbance during and after introduction.
A high-quality queen is essential for strong, productive hives. Smart beekeepers invest in well-bred queens to build successful apiaries.
