Hive Inspection Checklist
Record your observations during hive inspections. Copy or print the summary for your records.
Inspection Details
Weather Conditions
Queen & Brood
Population & Temperament
Stores
Pests & Disease
Equipment & Space
Actions & Notes
Save & Export
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I inspect my hives?
During active season (spring through fall), inspect every 7-14 days. In spring when swarming is likely, weekly checks help you catch swarm preparations. During winter, avoid opening hives. Just check entrances and heft for weight.
What should I look for during a hive inspection?
Focus on: queen presence (eggs are the best sign), brood pattern quality, food stores (honey and pollen), signs of disease or pests, available space, and overall colony temperament. You don't need to find the queen every time. Fresh eggs prove she was there recently.
What does a good brood pattern look like?
A solid brood pattern has few empty cells in the brood area, think 90%+ filled in a consistent oval shape. Spotty patterns with many empty cells scattered throughout may indicate queen problems, disease, or inbreeding.
When is it too cold to inspect?
Avoid opening hives when temperatures are below 60°F (15°C). Chilling brood can kill developing bees. On cooler days, keep inspections brief. Work quickly and close up within 5-10 minutes.
What are early signs of swarming?
Watch for: queen cells on the bottom edges of frames (swarm cells), backfilling the brood nest with honey, bearding on the front, and a suddenly crowded hive. If you see capped swarm cells, the swarm may leave within days.
Related Tools
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Post-Swarm Timeline
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Overwinter Feed Calculator
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Honey Yield Calculator
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