Location is the primary visual cue for determining colony intent. When diagnosing queen cells, check the vertical position on the frame: swarm cells are typically built along the bottom edge, whereas supersedure cells are usually constructed higher up, nearer to the top of the frame.
The specific placement of a queen cell reveals whether your hive is preparing to reproduce by splitting (swarming) or attempting to save itself by replacing a failing queen (supersedure).
Diagnosing Colony Intent Through Position
To manage your hive effectively, you must distinguish between a reproductive event and a survival response. The location of the queen cell provides the most immediate evidence.
Identifying Swarm Cells
Swarm cells are almost exclusively found along the bottom bars of the frames.
Bees construct these usually in preparation for the colony to split.
You will typically see these cells hanging vertically from the very bottom edge of the comb.
Identifying Supersedure Cells
In contrast, supersedure cells are built nearer to the top of the frame or on the face of the comb.
These cells indicate the colony is dissatisfied with the current queen and is raising a replacement.
Because they are often developed from existing worker larvae, they are found where the brood pattern already exists, rather than at the perimeter.
Understanding the "Why" Behind the Location
The physical location of the cell is dictated by the biological drive triggering its construction.
Reproductive Expansion (Swarming)
Swarming is the natural method of reproduction for a honey bee colony.
When the hive becomes congested, bees build swarm cells at the bottom where there is space to expand downwards.
This usually involves the construction of many cells to ensure a successful new queen for the remaining colony.
Emergency Replacement (Supersedure)
Supersedure is a specific reaction to a failing or injured queen.
The bees do not have time to plan; they must utilize larvae that have already been laid.
Since the queen lays brood in the central and upper areas of the frame, the resulting queen cells appear in these upper regions.
Limitations and Trade-offs
While location is a reliable rule of thumb, it is not an infallible law of nature. Relying solely on position without context can lead to misdiagnosis.
Exceptions to the Rule
Occasionally, you may find swarm cells built higher up on the comb if the bottom bars are completely inaccessible.
Conversely, a supersedure cell could appear lower if that is where the viable larvae were located.
Context is Critical
Do not judge the hive by cell position alone.
If you see cells at the top but the hive is boiling over with bees and has no space, they may still be swarming.
Always look for other signs of a failing queen, such as a spotty brood pattern, to confirm a diagnosis of supersedure.
Making the Right Choice for Your Hive
Once you have identified the cell type based on its location, you can tailor your management strategy.
- If your primary focus is preventing a swarm: Check the bottom of the frames for hanging cells and provide the colony with more space immediately.
- If your primary focus is colony survival: Look for cells nearer the top of the frame, which indicates you should allow the bees to replace their failing queen undisturbed.
Correctly interpreting these signs ensures you work with the bees' natural instincts rather than against them.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Swarm Cells | Supersedure Cells |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Location | Bottom edge of the frame | Face or upper part of the comb |
| Colony Intent | Reproduction & Splitting | Replacing a failing queen |
| Quantity | Usually numerous (5+) | Few (usually 1-3) |
| Trigger | Congestion & Overcrowding | Queen injury, age, or poor performance |
| Management Action | Increase space / Split hive | Leave undisturbed to allow replacement |
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