>A probable 99% test for queenlesness would be to put a frame of brood
containing eggs or
>24hrs old larvae into the suspect hive..(be carefull that you dont transfer
disease here).   If
>queenless then they will produce emergency Q cells on the face of the comb.
>Beware, sometimes these cells will produce small runty Qs that produce a
small brood nest.
 
While I agree with the overall method the last sentence forces me to respond.
        The only reason it will produce runty Qs is the failure of the
keeper to remove the emergency cells!! On the 4th day after adding the
frame, check and cut out all
"Sealed" cells. This removes cells which would produce runty Qs, and leaves
cells which will go full term ie 9 days to sealed, 16 days to emerge.
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