If syrup is used it may be better to check more than once a week in bad weather. Queen candy and fondant are not consumed as quickly. Ensure an adequate amount of food is left in feeding compartment. Check that the queen has emerged, and that there are sufficient bees. Queens can be marked.
Second inspection Check food and look for eggs.
If necessary, remove divider and add the other two bars. Check that the queen is there and alive, if there are no eggs. Fourth inspection Sealed brood should be evident. Make initial assessment of queens. N.B. Matings can be delayed due to bad weather.