Alot of variables. Start with hive #1. Sometimes the bees are slow to take up syrup with fumigillin if the bees were not started with plain syrup prior to the fumigillin or maybe the bees are using a natural nectar source. What are temps? I would expect a hive with many bees to have at least a small area of eggs and brood of all ages. Bees will use pollen stored in frames from previous season to start brood rearing early in spring. Queens will sometimes start laying in the upper (sunny side) of the hive and your initial inspection may have chilled eggs & driven bees to center to restart brood cluster. Is lower hive pollen plugged? Queen needs room to lay. It is early to be concerned with swarming but a pollen/nectar plugged hive will contribute to an eary swarm. Add empty combs or foundation if plugged. A cold spell combined with initial queen laying can cause an erratic brood pattern.
Hive #2 could have some of the same issues but really needed the patty to get started. All said. I think I would give the bees more time. With pollen coming in the bees will soon be going strong. The bees will clean old eggs and brood as they need more space. Good luck!
Hive #2 could have some of the same issues but really needed the patty to get started. All said. I think I would give the bees more time. With pollen coming in the bees will soon be going strong. The bees will clean old eggs and brood as they need more space. Good luck!
