Colony strength

A 'street' — the gap between frames densely covered with bees ≈ 250–300 bees (Dadant). One Dadant frame holds ~4,000 bees or ~7,000 brood cells. A strong colony in spring — 8+ streets and 5+ brood frames; before winter 8–10 streets. Weak ones (under 3 streets) — merge or boost with frames.