What can signify that a bee colony is preparing to swarm?

The presence of queen cells is a clear indicator that a bee colony is preparing to swarm. Queen cells are elongated, peanut-shaped structures that are created when the bees decide to raise a new queen, typically in anticipation of swarming. This usually happens when the colony has reached a certain population size, and the bees are preparing to split the colony into two. The queen cells indicate that the existing queen may be replaced, or that the colony is planning to divide itself to establish a new colony.

When bee colonies swarm, they often produce several queen cells, as this not only ensures the survival of the colony but also helps in establishing new colonies. Timing is essential, and the presence of these cells serves as a communication signal within the colony about upcoming changes. Hence, it represents a critical turning point in the life cycle of a beehive that directly relates to their reproductive strategy.

Increased nectar storage, for example, typically occurs in strong colonies but does not necessarily indicate swarming behavior specifically. Total dominance by one queen can lead to a more stable colony but does not inherently signal preparations for swarming. Reduced foraging activity might occur for various reasons, including poor weather or lack of resources, but it isn't a direct sign of swarming like the