Lost my Queen today !!!

[AtlantaBeek]

Was removing my supers today on all of my 5 hives.  When I was some distance away from hives i noticed queen on one of the supers.  I ran back over to hive and tried to get her back in but she flew away.  Does anyone have suggestions on what I can do if anything?  I am a dangerous newbie with only 2 years of beekeeping.

[iddee]

If you stood there for 3 or 4 minutes, she returned to the hive. She oriented on you when she flew.  Check for eggs after 4 days and you will know for sure.

[AtlantaBeek]

Thanks for the reply.  That makes me feel much better.  Worst case, if she did not, is the hive lost?

[iddee]

If no eggs in 4 to 6 days, I would combine and split in the spring.

[AtlantaBeek]

Ok.  Pretty cut and dry.  Thank you so much for the info.  Crazy thing is that it was my best hive....go figure.

[jalentour]

is it too late to add a new queen this time of year in Atlanta?
I us ed to live there and it doesn't get cold until January.

[BeeMaster2]

is it too late to add a new queen this time of year in Atlanta?
I us ed to live there and it doesn't get cold until January.

Not if it is mated.

Here in NL, I still had drones as of a week ago. Probably all gone now.
Jim

[AtlantaBeek]

Pretty sure all Drones have been given the boot.

[GSF]

On more than one occasion I've seen a queen fly off. Then later when I would check the hive I'd see her. Of course that works the other way 'round as well.

[Barry]

Was removing my supers today on all of my 5 hives.  When I was some distance away from hives i noticed queen on one of the supers.  I ran back over to hive and tried to get her back in but she flew away.  Does anyone have suggestions on what I can do if anything?  I am a dangerous newbie with only 2 years of beekeeping.

Like IDDEE said chances are good she made it back to parent hive. As stated in few days check brood status.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using Tapatalk

[Michael Bush]

For next time: http://www.bushfarms.com/beesqueenflying.htm

[AtlantaBeek]

FOLLOW UP::  Opened hive 4 days later.  All bees (except for maybe a hundred workers) were gone!  Verry small amount of capped brood, honey and pollen remained in two deeps.  No sign of wax moths, small amount of hive beetles ( less than 20).  All comb looked in really good shape.  Oh well.....  Have 4 other hives that are really strong.

[Van, Arkansas, USA]

Atlanta, so sorry for the outcome.  WE all hate a lost hive(s) and know the unpleasant feelings.  Thank you for the update although I was hoping for a different story.  Four other hives is good news, makes me glad you have hives to split for 2018.
Blessings