Which behavior can indicate that a bee colony is healthy?

A calm demeanor in the bees coupled with active foraging outside the hive serves as key indicators of a healthy colony. When bees are calm, it suggests that they are not overly stressed or threatened, which is often a sign of a well-functioning hive environment. Active foraging behavior indicates that the colony has a sufficient food source and is actively seeking resources, which is critical for growth and sustainability.

In contrast, frequent swarming can sometimes signal a healthy colony that is reproducing, but it may also indicate overcrowding or a lack of space, which can stress the bees. Excessive aggression towards intruders often points to a stressed or agitated colony, which may not be thriving. Limited movement inside the hive can suggest a lack of activity or problems such as disease or insufficient resources, which are not conducive to a healthy colony. Therefore, calmness and active foraging are strong indicators of a thriving hive, making this answer the best choice.