How to Choose and Introduce a Queen Bee
2025-04-05
Selecting and introducing a new queen bee is a delicate and vital process. Learn how to do it properly to ensure a strong hive.
Introducing a new queen bee into a hive requires careful planning and handling. A well-accepted queen can revitalize a weak colony, improve temperament, and boost honey production.
When to replace the queen?
- When the current queen is dead, failing, or not laying well
- To improve genetics (docility, productivity, disease resistance)
- After swarming or colony merging
How to choose the queen
1. Buy from certified breeders with controlled genetic lines.
2. Consider breed, age, and mating type (natural or instrumental).
3. Choose marked queens (colored dot) for easy identification.
How to introduce her
1. Keep her in her cage, placed between central brood frames.
2. Allow 2–3 days for the bees to get used to her scent.
3. Remove the plastic cap and let the bees release her by eating through the candy plug.
4. Check after 5–7 days if she’s been accepted and started laying.
Tips for success
- Avoid opening the hive during the acceptance period.
- Don’t introduce a queen into aggressive colonies without calming measures.
- If the introduction fails, try again or merge with a stronger colony.
A well-selected and properly introduced queen is key to a thriving beekeeping operation.
