How to Add a Queen to a Hive - Mated Queen - How To Introduce a Queen

How to Safely Introduce a Mated Queen to a hive is a really useful skill as it allows you to requeen a colony very quickly.

How to introduce a queen bee is a common beekeeping question and there are many queen introduction methods and queen introduction techniques.

In this video I show you my method for the safe introduction of posted, mated queens by adding a queen to a beehive that has been made hopelessley queenless.

If you want to know how to requeen a colony or requeen a beehive you need to ensure they are hopelessely queenless before you add a mated queen bee into the beehive.

Introducing a new queen bee to a hive can be a delicate process, and it’s crucial to do it right to ensure a smooth transition and the acceptance of the new queen. In this video, I’ll walk you through each step of introducing a mated queen bee to your hive, covering everything from preparing the hive to monitoring acceptance, with tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned beekeeper, this guide will help you make this essential task easier and more successful.

Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Video:

Why Introduce a New Queen?
We’ll start by discussing why a beekeeper might need to introduce a new queen to a hive. From requeening an older colony to introducing a queen to a new split or a struggling hive, there are many reasons for this important process. I’ll also cover the benefits of using a mated queen for quicker colony recovery and productivity.

Preparing the Hive for the New Queen
A peaceful hive is key to queen acceptance, so I’ll show you how to prepare your colony for a new queen. This includes removing any rogue queen cells, managing aggressive or overly defensive bees, and ensuring the colony is well-fed and calm.

Introducing the Queen in a Queen Cage
Using a queen cage is one of the most common and effective methods to introduce a new queen. I’ll explain how to place the cage in the hive correctly, so the workers can get used to her scent gradually before she’s released. I’ll also cover the different types of queen cages and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Candy Plug vs. Direct Release: Which Method to Use?
There are several ways to release a queen from her cage, and each method has its pros and cons. I’ll guide you through using a candy plug for a slower release or doing a direct release when time is of the essence. We’ll go over when to use each approach and what to look out for.

Monitoring the Queen’s Acceptance
Introducing a new queen doesn’t end once she’s in the hive. I’ll show you how to monitor the colony over the next few days to make sure the workers are accepting her. From checking for signs of aggression to looking for eggs, these steps will help ensure the new queen is well-received and laying quickly.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Introducing a new queen isn’t always smooth sailing. I’ll cover common issues beekeepers face, like aggressive worker behavior, workers clustering around the cage, or delayed egg-laying. Learn how to troubleshoot these problems and what to do if your queen isn’t accepted.

Why Use a Mated Queen?
Using a mated queen offers a head start in the colony's productivity, as she begins laying eggs almost immediately after acceptance. This can be particularly valuable when requeening or building up a hive quickly, and it’s especially useful in cases where time is crucial for the colony’s growth or recovery.

Additional Tips for a Successful Introduction
From checking for any signs of queenlessness to timing your introduction just right, I’ll share extra tips I’ve picked up from my own experiences with mated queens. Every colony is different, and small details can make a big difference!

Other Beekeeping Tutorials
If you’re interested in more beekeeping tips and want to keep your bees thriving, check out my other videos! I cover topics like hive inspections, seasonal maintenance, and advanced techniques to help you get the most from your colonies.

💬 Join the Conversation!
Have any tips or experiences with introducing a new queen to your hive? Share your stories and questions in the comments below! I love hearing from other beekeepers and learning about what’s worked for you.

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