[BuzzinBerries]

On July 3, I inspected hives. Just in time to watch a new queen come out of her cell and run across my finger before disappearing down between the frames. When will she go on her mating flight? How many days from hatching? And will I notice increased activity around the hive when she does go out and come back in?

 

[WillH]

From what I have read, a new queen will mate within 7 to 10 days.

 

[fish_stix]

No increased activity. She leaves alone, finds a drone congregation area, mates with several drones and returns with a big smile on her face. Sometimes it was so good for her that she'll try again the next day and maybe a third day. Little tramps!

 

[KQ6AR]

Last one I was observing, I think there where more drones at my entrance in the afternoon. Might be a coincidence.

 

[Michael Bush]

It depends on how close an eye you can keep and how many decide to follow her out. I've seen it look like a small swarm when she flew out to mate, but usually I don't notice.

 

[NasalSponge]

I have seen the same thing, a small swarm follow her out only to lose sight of her and return, happened to me a month ago.