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Short “field answers” first, deeper detail after.
Quick ID
Decision rules
Quick ID: cup vs charged vs capped
Field answerField answer
Empty cup = no action. Charged cell (larva + royal jelly) = colony is preparing a queen.
Capped cell = you’re late in the process; record the stage and act deliberately.
Cup (play cup)
Often normal
- Looks like a small acorn-cup.
- Usually empty and dry.
- May appear and disappear between inspections.
Charged queen cell
Pay attention
- Larva present with milky royal jelly.
- Cell is being extended (longer, peanut texture).
- Interpret using context: swarm/supersedure/emergency.
Capped queen cell
On a clock
- Capping is usually domed.
- Swarm risk may increase (especially in spring).
- Do not crush cells “just because” — decide based on your plan.
Example queen cell photos (your hive)
These are your own images, used as stage references on this page.
Where to look on the frame
Field answerField answer
Start with the brood frames. Check lower edges first, then scan the face of comb,
then look in “pockets” and between frames.
Lower edges
Classic swarm zone
Most swarm cells are often built along the bottom bars/edges of brood frames.
Face of comb
Supersedure often here
Supersedure cells are often fewer in number and can appear on the face/middle area.
Pockets & gaps
Easy to miss
Look in “comb pockets”, brace comb areas, and between frames — especially if bees are dense.
Deeper detail
Don’t over-handle frames while hunting for cells. Work methodically:
edge → face → rotate slightly → edge again. If you find one charged cell, assume there may be more.
Swarm vs supersedure vs emergency
Field answerField answer
Use the “3 clues”: number, location, colony story.
Lots of cells on lower edges in a booming colony often suggests swarm preparation.
One or two cells on the face of comb with an underperforming queen often suggests supersedure.
Swarm cells
Common in spring
- Often multiple cells.
- Frequently along lower edges.
- Colony is strong, congested, or backfilling brood nest.
Supersedure cells
Quiet replacement
- Often 1–2 cells.
- May be on the face/middle of frame.
- Queen may be failing / patchy brood / reduced performance.
Emergency cells
No queen story
- Can be many, scattered.
- Built from worker cells around young larvae.
- Often follows queen loss (no eggs, no young larvae).
Caution
Misreading the situation is worse than “not doing something fast”.
If you’re unsure: take photos, record what you saw (stage + location + number), and seek local guidance.
Timeline cheat sheet
Field answerField answer
If you see a capped queen cell, assume the process is well underway.
Record the stage and plan your next check quickly (especially in spring).
What to do next
Field answerField answer
Don’t panic-cut cells. First: confirm queen evidence (eggs/young larvae), assess congestion,
and record stage + location + number. Then choose a plan that matches your goals.
If it looks like swarm prep
Spring priority
- Reduce congestion: space management matters.
- Work to a known swarm-control method you’re confident with.
- Set a clear follow-up visit goal (and date).
If it looks like supersedure
Often “let it happen”
- Fewer cells; colony replacing a failing queen.
- Record brood pattern + queen status evidence.
- Avoid unnecessary disruption.
If it looks like emergency
Act carefully
- Confirm if there are eggs/young larvae present.
- Consider whether the colony needs support (advice/mentor).
- Keep notes and avoid repeated heavy inspections.
FAQ
Quick answersDo I need to find the queen if I see queen cells?
Not always. Evidence of a laying queen (eggs/young larvae) plus context is usually more useful than a long queen hunt.
Are queen cups always swarm signs?
No. Empty cups can be normal. Charged cells (larva + royal jelly) are the key change.
Should I cut out queen cells?
Avoid “automatic” cutting. First record stage + number + location and choose an action based on a clear plan.
Where are swarm cells usually found?
Commonly along the lower edges of brood frames — but always check the whole brood area methodically.
What should I write in my notes?
“Queen evidence (eggs/larvae), number of cells, stage (cup/charged/capped), location (edge/face), colony congestion, actions taken + follow-up goal.”