Implements to have handy during a hive inspection:

• Hive tool
• Scratcher for testing drones for mites
• Record book, noting day and date of inspection
• Painter’s tape for marking outside of hive box–e.g., “honey super 30% full,” etc.
• Bee brush or large feather
• Device for lighting smoker (Propane torch, lighter, matches)
• One or more wooden nuc boxes to temporarily hold the queen frame and other frames