Hive inspections play a big part in any beekeeper’s success, but keep in mind that each time you inspect a beehive, no matter how carefully you do so, you disturb the colony. You do not need to spend long periods in the hive during these inspections. Remember that relaxed, calm movements greatly reduce the chances of an angry colony. Inspections should be frequent enough to monitor hive health but not so frequent that they disrupt the bees unnecessarily, and don’t forget to listen for buzzing sounds to determine the colony’s level of agitation and stress.
The frequency you’ll complete inspections varies based on a few factors, but should always be done on warm, sunny days whenever possible… and make sure you take notes to track hive progress over time! (Learn more about taking notes & keeping beehive records in the “Read More” section below.)
For newly established colonies… and newly established beekeepers!
For experienced beekeepers, frequent inspections are not generally needed, they typically understand the behaviors of each colony and have a keen eye for unusual or unexpected activity. Even without frequent hive inspections, educated and informed assessments about the status of colony can be made.
For new beekeepers just getting started, that experience hasn’t been lived and learned quite yet. After waiting a week or so from when you’ve installed a honeybee colony, consider opening up your hives about once a week, weather permitting. Inspecting with this schedule allows you to stay on top of what’s going on in the hive, learn as the colony develops and watch seasonal changes. You will also learn to identify potential problems and hopefully resolve them.
Seasonal Timing
Though these timelines may vary slightly based on the colony’s health status and your location, new beekeepers can generally follow these guidelines:
- Spring – Inspect every 7-10 days
- Summer – Inspect every 2 weeks or so
- Fall – Every 2-3 weeks
- Winter – Minimal or No inspections (Only External Hive Checks)
Other Considerations
More frequent inspections than the timelines above may be necessary in certain circumstances:
- The nectar flow has started, and you have concerns about whether bees have enough space to store nectar and honey.
- Or, alternatively, when you think bees don’t have enough resources coming in and supplemental feeding may be needed.
- You’ve noticed signs of possible swarming or queenlessness.
- You’ve seen signs of an excess of dead bees at the hive entrance (primarily a winter concern)
- You’ve noticed signs of disease or pests, especially the presence of Varroa mites.
- After severe weather events (but not just after!)
- If you must mow around your bee yard, try to avoid doing so just before or directly after a hive inspection to avoid further stress on bees.
- Want to bring your kids to the hive with you for inspections? Find out more about doing so safely here.
Read More
The Big Issues to Check at the Hive Inspection
Practical Hive Inspection Tips & Tricks
Inspect Often When You Start Beekeeping
Hive Inspections and Recordkeeping
Other than my beehives, what equipment will I need?
An Introduction to the Hive Inspection *
Tracking Hive Progress & Keeping Records *
Inspecting and Understanding the Brood Pattern *
Learning from a Deadout Inspection *
* Colony Member-Only Content
Marta’s Printable Resources
Our amazing collaborator, Marta, has taken her years of experience and created some beautiful resources to help with inspecting your hives and planning out your seasonal tasks.
(Please note, these printable resources are aimed to help beekeepers in climates similar to the Northeastern U.S. Beekeeping timelines and suggested actions may vary based on your location)
Related Products in the PerfectBee Store
Beehive Management Tools & Equipment
The Beekeeper’s Problem Solver (Book)
