Beehive Inspections 101: What Every Beginner Needs to Know

Regular hive inspections are key to keeping your bees healthy and productive.

But when and how should you inspect your hive?

If you’re a new beekeeper, it might feel overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—we’ll walk you through it step by step.

When to Inspect Your Hive

• Every 7–10 days during spring and summer.

• Less frequently in late summer and fall as bees prepare for winter.

• Avoid inspections in cold or rainy weather, as it can stress the colony.

What to Bring for a Hive Inspection

Before you open your hive, make sure you have:

✅ Bee suit and gloves – Protection from stings.

✅ Smoker – Helps keep bees calm.

✅ Hive tool – For lifting frames and prying open boxes.

✅ Bee brush – To gently move bees off frames.

(These can get bees tangled, some Beekeepers use a handful of grass)

Check out a starter kit such as our Buzz Box - Bee Keeping Starter Kit!

Buzz Box - Bee Keeping Starter Kit

Step-by-Step Hive Inspection Guide

1️⃣ Approach Calmly & Use the Smoker

• Light your smoker and give a few gentle puffs at the hive entrance.

• Wait a minute before opening to let the bees settle.

2️⃣ Open the Hive & Observe Activity

• Remove the outer cover and inner cover.

• Look for normal bee activity—lots of movement and a gentle buzz.

3️⃣ Check the Frames

• Lift frames carefully, one at a time.

• Look for brood (eggs, larvae, capped pupae).

• Healthy brood patterns are compact and consistent.

4️⃣ Find the Queen (or Signs of Her Presence)

• Spotting the queen isn’t always easy, but her presence is confirmed if you see eggs (tiny rice-like specks).

• If you can’t find eggs or brood, you may need to requeen.

5️⃣ Look for Honey & Pollen Storage

• Bees need enough honey and pollen to feed themselves.

• If supplies are low, consider supplemental feeding.

6️⃣ Check for Pests & Diseases

• Look for varroa mites, small hive beetles, or unusual spots on combs.

• If you see something concerning, research treatment options quickly.

7️⃣ Close the Hive Gently

• Reassemble the hive carefully to avoid squishing bees.

• Add a few puffs of smoke before sealing the lid to guide them back inside.

Regular inspections keep your colony thriving. As you gain experience, you’ll learn to read the hive’s natural rhythm and address issues before they become major problems.

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