I have to make a comment here. Randy's colony may be raising a new queen, Michael you say that she will probably be laying in about 24 days.
Randy, what is your weather like? I probably am not understanding the weather conditions in your area. Is your weather where you live warm enough for this newly emerged queen to go out on her nuptual flight? Are there drones flying in your area when she would be heading out the door? I don't think anyone in this thread has addressed the weather issues with queens flying to drone congregation areas. I am curious about this weather thing. Have a wonderful day, best of this great life. Cindi