Slow queen introduction

Slow queen introduction using a queen cage is a widely recommended method to increase queen acceptance. The queen is confined within a specialized cage (queen cage) and placed inside the hive, typically between frames of brood. The cage prevents immediate contact and aggression from worker bees. Over several days, worker bees gradually acclimate to the queen's pheromones through the cage mesh. After a few days (typically 3-7), the queen is released, often by removing a candy plug in the cage, allowing a slow and gradual integration into the colony. Slow introduction allows for pheromone acclimation and reduces rejection risk.