What is a defining feature of healthy bee colonies?

A defining feature of healthy bee colonies is consistent foraging activity. This behavior indicates that the worker bees are actively seeking out and collecting resources such as nectar and pollen, which are vital for the colony's sustenance and growth. A colony engaged in regular foraging is likely to have a robust and diverse food supply, supporting not only the queen and her brood but also the overall vitality of the hive.

High numbers of drones can be a characteristic of a colony but do not necessarily indicate health; instead, they point more to reproductive strategies. The presence of wax moths suggests a weakened or unhealthy colony since these pests typically infest hives that are not strong enough to defend themselves. Low honey production would also indicate an issue, as healthy colonies should produce sufficient honey to sustain themselves and provide for the overwintering period. Thus, the activity level of foraging is a prime indicator of the colony's robust health and productivity.