Beekeepers utilize colored paint marks on queen bees to simplify colony inspections and track the age of the monarch. This practice follows an international five-year color rotation, which helps determine if a hive has replaced its leader naturally. While the standard color for years ending in three or eight is red, many producers now opt for bright pink because it is significantly easier to spot against the honeycomb. When marking queens manually, it is vital to select water-based, non-toxic markers to ensure the safety of the insect. Experts recommend briefly isolating the queen in a cage after application to allow the pigment to dry completely before she returns to the workers. Using these techniques ensures that the queen remains highly visible and identifiable throughout her productive life. #honeybees #valleybeekeeping
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