Are clean cells an indication a new Queen is about to lay?

[BernardBlack]

I have noticed previously if a Queen has been removed (and a sealed Q cell is only in the hive), those cells that previously contained Brood, the workers then start filling up with stores (as there are no new Brood going in them).

Now that a new Queen has (seemingly) emerged, I noticed on a few frames there’s areas now cleaned/clear and no stores in them. Do the workers know the new Queen is about to lay, and they are preparing those areas for her?

The reason I ask is, I just want to know that the new Queen has emerged OK. And just thought these cleaned areas might be an indication that all is well, and she’s ready to go.

 

[Erichalfbee]

They often are, yes
Usually described as polished cells

 

[Finman]

You will see when she starts to lay.