>>I knocked off the queen cell and released each queen directly into 
the  hive.  Would you have done the same????????

I would [although I don't have any experience with Russian bees].  I 
would let the queen walk out onto a frame after observing no 
aggression by the bees at the queen cage.  The queen's scent should 
have spread throughout the hive.  I would expect no problem since the 
queens were still alive after several days w/o attendants.

Waldemar
Long Island, NY

-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and  other info ---