May have a queenless hive...need advice!!

[Chanticleer48]

Need some guidance....I inspected a package hive yesterday that I hived on March 29, this was the second time I had inspected the hive. The first time I inspected, the queen had been released and the bees were drawing out comb.  I did not see the queen, eggs, or larvae, no evidence of a laying queen.  Yesterday when I inspected, I again did not see the queen, no capped brood, un-capped brood, eggs or any sign of a laying queen.  Is it safe to assume the hive is not queen-right?  Should I get another queen as soon as possible?  Again, I am new to this wonderful world of beekeeping, but I need some advice.

[HomeSteadDreamer]

does sound like you are not queen right.  I look for her again to see if you maybe have a queen that isn't laying.  IF that is the case I'd contact the package guy for a good queen. 

IF you just don't have a queen then order one and I'd do it quickly or ask around your beek club for someone with a queen cell.

[Chanticleer48]

Ok....I have order a new queen, but she probably will not arrive for 3 to 4 days.  Is that to long for a hive to remain queenless??

[mikecva]

3-4 days - no they should be ok if they have a non-laying queen but they may not be happy if they are not queen right. When the new queen does come in, remember to remove the non-laying queen or the new queen may be killed. And feed, feed, feed with 1:1 and a pollen patty. Do not go into the hive for 7 days after you install the new queen. -Mike

[Vance G]

I have had queens take two weeks to start laying so it can still happen for you.  Don't bet on it, but before you put in the new queen take a good look for eggs or brood or a queen.  Rough situation for all of us and doubly so if you lack experience.  Good luck with it.