A successful introduction starts with a queenless colony, a secure cage and enough time for the bees to settle. This is a simple guide for introducing a mated queen using a candy-release cage. Always follow the instructions supplied with your queen.
1. Prepare the colony
Find and remove the existing queen. Check carefully for queen cells or a virgin queen—a colony with either may reject the newcomer. If you’re unsure of the colony’s queen status, ask for help before introducing her. A newly made queenless nuc is often easier to requeen than a large, defensive colony.
2. Keep her safe
Check the queen is alive on arrival. Keep the cage ventilated, out of direct sunlight and away from extremes of temperature. Leave her in the cage with her attendants.
3. Introduce the closed cage
Secure the cage between brood frames where the bees can reach its mesh. Keep the candy outlet covered initially so she cannot be released immediately. Follow the supplied instructions for queenless preparation and the settling period; methods differ between colonies.
4. Allow a slow release
When the settling period is complete, remove only the cover over the candy outlet. Leave the candy in place for the bees to eat through. Do not open the main cage or release her directly. If the bees are biting or gripping the cage aggressively, keep the outlet covered and seek advice.
5. Give them time
After exposing the candy, leave the brood nest undisturbed for around seven days. Repeated inspections can upset acceptance. Make sure the colony has food; a light syrup feed may help when there is no nectar flow.
6. Check gently
Look for eggs or young brood. You do not need to find the queen if you can see fresh eggs. If she is still caged, or you cannot find eggs, contact us before intervening—laying can take time to resume.
Need help? Get in touch, especially for a defensive colony, suspected laying workers or uncertain queen status. No introduction method guarantees acceptance.