An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member on which an
electrostatic latent image is capable of being formed; a developer
accommodating container for accommodating a developer for developing the
electrostatic latent image; a detecting device for detecting a remaining
amount of the developer in the developer accommodating container, wherein
the detecting device detects the remaining amount during a period in
which no image forming operation is performed; a developer stirring
member for stirring the developer in the developer accommodating
container, the developer stirring member being rotatable at a speed which
is lower during detection of the remaining amount than when an image
forming operation is performed, wherein the detecting device detects
first, second and third developer remaining amounts in first, second and
third remaining amount detecting periods, respectively, in the order
named, and wherein an interval between the second detection period and
the third detection period is changed on the basis of the first and
second remaining amounts.