Which of the following is a major factor in the determination of capping honey?

The moisture level of the honey is a major factor in the determination of capping honey because it directly influences the honey's suitability for long-term storage. Bees will begin to cap the honeycomb cells with wax when the moisture content of the honey drops to around 18-20%. This capping is critical as it helps preserve the honey, preventing fermentation and maintaining its quality. If the moisture content is too high, bees will delay capping in order to allow for further evaporation, ensuring that the honey reaches the appropriate consistency for optimal storage.

While other factors such as the presence of a queen, the age of the bees, and the type of flowers visited play roles in overall hive health and productivity, they do not directly dictate the timing and necessity of capping honey. For instance, a colony may be strong and have a functioning queen, but if the honey produced contains excessive moisture, the bees will not cap it until it is adequately dried. Thus, the moisture level stands out as the primary determinant in this process.