The primary indicator of the queen’s status is the condition of the candy plug within the cage. Before removing the device, you must visually inspect the cage to see if the candy barrier has been consumed and the seal broken. If the plug is missing, you must then verify the queen is effectively integrated by locating her or observing worker bees actively tending to her.
The candy plug acts as a timer to allow the colony to acclimate to the new queen's pheromones. If the plug is gone, the physical barrier is removed; if the workers are tending to her, the social barrier has been overcome.
Inspecting the Release Mechanism
Examining the Candy Plug
Your first step is a visual check of the queen cage itself. Specifically, look at the candy plug that separates the queen from the rest of the hive.
Interpreting the Seal
If the candy plug has been fully consumed and the seal is broken, the queen has been released by the workers. Conversely, if the candy remains intact, the queen is still contained within the cage.
The Implication of Containment
An intact plug indicates that the integration process is incomplete. The colony requires more time to accept the new queen, and the cage should likely remain in place.
Verifying Colony Acceptance
Locating the Queen
If the cage is empty, your objective shifts to confirming her presence in the hive. Attempt to visually locate the queen on the frames.
Observing Worker Behavior
You do not always need to see the queen to confirm her status. Look for signs of tending, where worker bees surround and care for a healthy queen.
Confirming Integration
The presence of workers tending to the queen is the definitive sign of success. It confirms that the colony has not only released her but has accepted her as their leader.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Mistaking Release for Acceptance
A missing candy plug implies the queen is out, but it does not guarantee she is safe. Always look for the behavioral signs of tending to ensure she hasn't been rejected or balled by the colony.
Rushing the Process
If the candy is only partially eaten, do not force the removal of the cage. The consumption of the candy is pacing the release; rushing this can lead to queen rejection.
Making the Right Choice for Your Hive
To ensure the long-term health of your colony, base your next move on the physical evidence found during inspection.
- If your primary focus is confirming release: Check if the candy plug is consumed and the seal is broken.
- If your primary focus is confirming acceptance: Look for worker bees actively tending to the queen or visually locate her on the frames.
Success depends on verifying that the physical barrier is gone and the social bond has formed.
Summary Table:
| Inspection Factor | Observation | Conclusion/Action |
|---|---|---|
| Candy Plug | Fully consumed/Seal broken | Queen has been released from the cage |
| Candy Plug | Intact or partially eaten | Integration incomplete; leave cage in place |
| Worker Behavior | Bees surrounding/tending queen | Social acceptance confirmed; successful integration |
| Worker Behavior | Aggressive 'balling' or ignoring | Possible rejection; monitor closely |
| Queen Presence | Spotted on frames | Queen is active and moving within the colony |
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