Spring has arrived in the UK after a mild but wet winter. I have one
colony which is laying up well, but unfortunately all the brood is
drone, laid in a spotty fashion. I obviously concluded that the queen
had died over the winter and I have a laying worker. However, there
are 3 or 4 fresh queen cells  (not present 3 weeks ago) containing
food, but as far as I can see no eggs or larvae.
Is this usual with laying workers? Is it possible that the bees can
steal a fertile egg from another hive and rescue the situation? Should
I give up with this colony? All suggestions welcome.

John Burgess, Editor Gwenynwyr Cymru/The Welsh Beekeeper