package mistake

[jesuslives31548]

I need some advise. Yesterday my son and I where installing to new packages. He accidently removed the wrong cork-end of the Queen cage. She either fell in the box or flew away. I did not see any swarms that evening or this morning. The bees are going in and out of the hive. My question is this:

1. Should I wait a fe days and look inside the hive for her ?

2. Take the possible Queen-less hive and combine with the one I know has a Queen?

3. Quicky order another Queen ?

Any suggestions or ideas would be GREAT.....

THANKS

[Keith13]

I would wait a few days then check inside for her or eggs. i'm sure someone with more experience will answer this for you

[JP]

I would wait a few days then check inside for her or eggs. I'm sure someone with more experience will answer this for you

I agree with Keith. All is more than likely well. Many on here practice direct release on package queens, which is what you did albeit, inadvertently.

Best wishes, and yes check in on them in about 5 days for signs of eggs, but don't freak if you don't see any, sometimes it can take her a little while to get going. Check back in if you need further advice.


...JP

[WhipCityBeeMan]

Was the queen clipped?  I she was clipped then she wouldn't have gotten too far.
I agree with the other posts. She is probably in the hive.

[jesuslives31548]

Thanks for the advice, Not sure if she was clipped or not. Watching the hives today it seems as busy and active as the others. Many bees flying in covered with pollen, some even covered in some pink pollen, kinda funny to see them.  My son today changed all the feeder jars in SHORTS AND SHIRT. Im very proud to have a 13 year old bee helper. He was out to loking around the property for bees working flowers.

[Michael Bush]

>1. Should I wait a fe days and look inside the hive for her ?

Yes.  Wait a week or two.  Look for eggs, brood or a queen.  Any will do.  If there are none, then decide what to do next.

>2. Take the possible Queen-less hive and combine with the one I know has a Queen?

No.

>3. Quicky order another Queen ?

No.