Drones 2024/Overwintering drones???

[reedyfork]

Is it possible for drones to overwinter in a hive? I thought not, but I did a thorough check of some hives on Monday and found plentiful numbers of mature-looking drones on frames. I guess it's possible they are this year's drones, but that means those eggs would have been laid AT LEAST 24+ days ago (in January)!

[Wally]

Queens can start laying anytime after solstice. Dec 21, 22. A few drone cells may well have been laid in January. A better prospect than over wintering.

[Jacobs]

I saw my first drone outside the hive at my house. It was fully formed, but unable to fly. It won't be long before drones will be coming out when workers are doing orientation flights.

[Jacobs]

I saw my first drones flying this afternoon. They were returning to the strongest hive at the house.

[Wally]

A good sign of swarming prep. Better check for swarm cells.