Why must we put two queens?
As an expert beekeeper, I can confidently say that putting two queens in a single colony can have numerous benefits. This practice has been employed by beekeepers for centuries and is known to result in a larger population of bees and an abundance of excess honey. Allow me to explain why this is the case.
1. Increased egg laying: The presence of two queens in a colony means double the egg-laying capacity. Each queen can lay up to 2,000 eggs per day, resulting in a significant boost to the population of worker bees. This increased population ensures a strong and productive colony capable of efficiently foraging for nectar and producing honey.
2. Redundancy and stability: Having two queens provides a sense of redundancy within the colony. In the event that one queen becomes ill, injured, or dies, the colony still has another queen to ensure its survival. This redundancy acts as an insurance policy against the loss of a queen, preventing the colony from collapsing and allowing it to continue thriving.
3. Swarm prevention: Bees have a natural instinct to swarm when the colony becomes overcrowded. By introducing a second queen, we provide an outlet for the excess population to divide into two separate colonies, reducing the likelihood of swarming. This not only helps maintain the size of the colony but also prevents the loss of bees and honey that would occur during a swarm.
4. Increased honey production: A larger population of worker bees means more foragers collecting nectar and pollen. This increased workforce allows the colony to gather larger quantities of nectar, resulting in a surplus of honey production. With two queens, the bees are able to efficiently utilize the available resources, maximizing their honey-making potential.
5. Improved colony health: The presence of two queens can contribute to a healthier colony. Each queen produces pheromones that help regulate the behavior and unity of the hive. Having two queens ensures a more robust and stable pheromone balance, which can lead to increased productivity, decreased aggression, and overall improved health of the colony.
It is important to note that introducing two queens into a single colony requires careful management and monitoring. The queens must be compatible and coexist harmoniously to avoid conflict or competition. Beekeepers need to regularly assess the colony’s health, population size, and honey stores to ensure the success of this approach.
The practice of placing two queens in a single colony has proven to be beneficial for beekeepers. It leads to a larger population of bees, increased honey production, swarm prevention, and improved colony health. By carefully managing and monitoring the colony, beekeepers can harness the advantages of having two queens and enjoy the rewards of a thriving and productive bee colony.