 What
are the advantages of marking the Queen |
How
do you mark her? |
| A marked queen is so much easier to find.
Having found her, you can put that particular frame to one
side, then relax a bit whilst examining the remainder of the
colony. |
Just hold her gently between your thumb and index finger,
then dab a small spot of paint onto the thorax. Hold her for
a minute or so in order for the paint to dry, then release
her into the hive. |
| There is then less chance of accidentally
injuring her. |
If you are a bit nervous about doing this,
why not pick up a few Drones first and practice painting on
them. |
| You will know that she has not been
replaced. |
Be very careful not to get paint on her
eyes, wings, legs or antenna. |
| You will know her age. |
Instead of using paint, you can buy a kit
using glue and small numbered stickers instead. |
| If you have an observation hive, you will
want everyone to see her. |
There is also a tube you can either buy or
make into which you place the Queen to avoid touching her.
(Check out your catalogues for details.)
 |
