Practical Guide: 1.4.7 Colony Multiplication from Swarming Impulse
Colony multiplication based on swarming impulse makes targeted use of the natural reproductive drive of honey bee colonies for the formation of nucleus colonies. When correctly applied, this method allows simple multiplication and the use of existing queen cells, but it requires careful observation and timely intervention. The following information is based on the official Practical Guide 1.4.7 of the Swiss Bee Health Service (BGD).
Official Practical Guide (BGD / SSA) – Summary
Practical Guide: 1.4.7 Colony Multiplication from Swarming Impulse
- Definition: Colony multiplication from swarming impulse refers to the formation of new colonies by using the natural swarming tendency of a colony and the queen cells constructed during this process.
- Objective: Creation of new colonies through natural processes while simultaneously relieving swarming colonies.
- Prerequisites:
- Clearly swarming, strong colony.
- Presence of well-developed queen cells.
- Regular and careful inspection of the parent colony.
- Effect:
- Reduction of swarming pressure in the parent colony.
- Formation of one or more nucleus colonies with their own queen.
- Procedure:
- Remove brood combs with queen cells from the swarming colony.
- Assemble a nucleus colony according to the practical guide.
- Ensure sufficient bee population and feed reserves.
- Continue management and monitoring of the young colonies until queen mating.
- Important note:
- Uncontrolled handling may still result in the departure of a swarm.
► PDF of the official practical guide (DE)
► Official overview of practical guides (bienen.ch)
Note: Section Multiplication & Breeding → 1.4.7 “Colony Multiplication from Swarming Impulse”.
Summary based on Practical Guide 1.4.7. Last review: 01/2026.
Learn more:
- Understanding swarming behaviour
- Swarm prevention in practice
- Dividing colonies and forming nucleus colonies
- Recognising and assessing queen cells