Observation · July 14, 2026 · 7 min read
A cloud of bees facing the entrance can be a normal learning flight. Read its timing, movement and surrounding activity before confusing it with swarming or robbing.
Observation · June 11, 2026 · 6 min read
You can learn more about a colony's health in five minutes at the entrance than in a full inspection. Decode pollen loads, flight patterns, and guard behaviour like an experienced beekeeper.
Observation · March 27, 2026 · 6 min read
Long before the crownboard comes off, a hive tells you whether it is queenright, hungry, or about to swarm. Learning the sounds costs nothing and saves inspections.
Observation · March 26, 2026 · 8 min read
A brood frame is a written record of the last three weeks in a colony. Learn to read cappings, pattern, arcs of pollen and nectar, and the small anomalies that reveal queen problems before they become emergencies.
Observation · March 5, 2026 · 6 min read
One hive in the row booms while its neighbour dwindles, and neither inspection explains why. Drifting bees quietly redistribute your apiary — and your mites with them.
Observation · February 19, 2026 · 8 min read
Wax flakes, cappings, pollen and moisture beneath the brood nest can reveal where bees are clustered and what deserves a closer inspection.
Observation · February 3, 2026 · 7 min read
Comb is a written record of everything a colony has done. Here is how to read colour, cell size, cappings, and damage during a normal inspection.
Every article here is easier to act on with your own inspection records. Start free with up to three hives.
