Queens

The queen bee is the heart of the hive, playing a pivotal role in the health and productivity of the colony. As the sole egg-laying member, her ability to lay up to 2,000 eggs per day ensures the population remains strong and balanced, sustaining the hive through the seasons. Queens are raised under special conditions when the colony needs to replace an aging or absent queen. Worker bees feed selected larvae a nutrient-rich diet of royal jelly, triggering their development into queens. Once mature, the new queen embarks on a mating flight, gathering enough sperm to fertilize eggs throughout her lifetime, which typically lasts two to five years. A healthy queen maintains the colony’s harmony through pheromones, which regulate worker behavior and prevent the development of rival queens. Signs of a failing queen include reduced egg production, scattered brood patterns, and diminished pheromone influence, which can lead to swarming or colony decline. Beekeepers play a crucial role in queen management. Regular inspections help assess her performance, and replacing an underperforming queen can revitalize a struggling hive. By understanding the queen’s vital contributions, beekeepers can ensure their colonies remain robust, productive, and cohesive.