When I have done a split or made up a nuc, it has been my practice to leave the "new" colony queenless for 24 hours, the idea being they will more readily accept the introduced queen. I only do this as it is what I have read and been taught (mentor). I have also read that it does not really matter all that much. Does anyone have any experience, bad or good on this matter?
I've read that in 4 hrs the colony knows it is Queen less, and will start making preperations for a new Queen ??? I'd have to try and find it to give a reference though. Those Nucs I have made up, I to also waited about 24 hrs. Murrell
I am glad that this info was revealed, as I was unaware of it...It will help others, it's true. Anything that helps a split accept a new queen is a great thing. LtlWilli
I have noticed a change in the sound and behavior in 15 minutes. I usually wait until I am finished with my last hive of 40 and go back to put a new lady in. I think at Dr. Larry Connor's class it was an hour just to be sure.
It can also depend on the makeup of the split/nuc. If there are larva in it young enough they may start producing their own queen in less than 24 hrs and ignore a queen in a cage.
