Hive inspection checklist & record

Checks to take to the hive

Source review: 25 October 2026. NBU guidance was checked using indexed official documents; direct website access was unavailable. Use current official guidance and your local training before acting.

Hive: ____________________   Date: ____________
Weather: ____________________

1. Prepare before opening

   Choose a suitable inspection window; assemble protective clothing, smoker, hive tool and record materials before opening.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

2. Food stores

   Observe and record food stores in context; ask an experienced beekeeper if concerned.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

3. Space

   Note whether the colony has room, considering colony condition and season.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

4. Eggs and brood

   Look for eggs, larvae and sealed brood; record observations rather than diagnosing from one sign.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

5. Queen cells

   Record number, location and appearance; seek mentor advice before taking action.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

6. Unusual brood signs

   Note unusual appearance and contact the NBU/bee inspector if foulbrood is suspected; do not move bees or equipment.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

7. Varroa monitoring

   Use current NBU monitoring guidance and record method, date and result; this checklist gives no treatment advice.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

8. Close and record

   Return frames in order, close the colony and record date, observations and follow-up questions.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

9. Active-season frequency

   BBKA describes weekly checks in late spring and summer; adapt to conditions and local advice.

   Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

   Observation: ____________________________________

10. Winter external check

    Occasionally check for disturbance and sufficient stores without routine frame opening.

    Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

    Observation: ____________________________________

11. Suspected foulbrood

    AFB and EFB are notifiable; contact the NBU/bee inspector immediately and follow country-specific official instructions.

    Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

    Observation: ____________________________________

12. Suspected yellow-legged Asian hornet

    Use the current NBU reporting route; do not approach or disturb a nest.

    Official guidance · Source review 2026-10-25

    Observation: ____________________________________

Eggs seen: ______ Queen cells: ______ Frames of brood: ______
Stores: __________________ Temper: __________________
Next action: ________________________________________