Behaviors of Adult Queen Honeybees within Observation Hives I. Behavior Patterns

Abstract

Based on observations of 6 virgin and 8 mated queens by the 'single-individua ltrailing 'method for ca. 450 hrs, 46 behavior patterns were described, together with 32 worker behaviors closely related to queens, and some short comments, if any. After the difference between virgin and mated queens was compared, 'egg laying', 'royal court formation' and 'balling behavior' were particularly discussed. The last 2, which are worker behaviors and composed of 13 and 12 patterns respectively, may be based on 2 drives, fleeing and aggression.