Updated: 11th February 2021
Bee swarm removal is not something for the unequipped to try
themselves, but that does not mean you have to call in a pest control
company. It’s possible to have bees removed
humanely and sometimes even free of charge - some beekeepers do not charge for this
service.
So, before calling in some-one to remove and destroy the swarm, please read the following free information and advice - you may save the bees, remove them, and save your money too!
A bee swarm is a fascinating spectacle, however, the sight of one may unnerve some people.
A dense cloud of bees whirling into the air - even on a warm sunny day, can cause panic.
Nevertheless, the first point to note is that a bee swarm is not looking to attack you. The bees are merely seeking a new place to make a home. In doing so, a honey bee swarm may rest in a hanging clump or mass, whilst scout bees go off to find a suitable place to make a permanent nest.
Although the bees are not looking to sting you, they can become aggressive if they feel under threat. Keep your distance and you should not be bothered by the bees.
If the swarm is not in an inconvenient place and you are able to ‘sit it out’ then do so. Sometimes, you don't need to do anything. Simply leave the bees alone, and give them a wide berth. Your main job then is to relax and keep calm - if you can, enjoy the opportunity to observe nature at work - you can learn more about swarming bees on this link.
In any event, whatever you decide to do, it's best to keep children
and pets away. After a while, the swarm may move on by itself -
usually within a day or two.
However, if the bees are definitely in an inconvenient place and are causing concern, or if you need impartial advice, it is best to act sooner rather than later. Please take note of the guidance below.
Why?
Because they will remove the bees safely, humanely, and sometimes free of charge. On the other hand, they may have different advice.
However, do not expect the first beekeeper you make contact with to come to your rescue. Beekeepers have lives too, and they cannot necessarily drop everything to visit immediately.
On the other hand, the beekeeper may not have a spare hive available, or for his/her own reasons, they may not wish to introduce another colony.
Note:
If
a beekeeper agrees to help you, but the swarm moves on before they
arrive, do let them know as soon as possible, hopefully to prevent them
from journeying over to assist you.
An alternative route is to phone your local authority and enquire about bee swarm removal. If you are in the USA, there are some regulations in certain counties regarding Africanized honey bees. Always ask about their fees and procedures, and how long it will take for assistance to arrive.
Many local authorities will charge for the removal of swarms (even if they usually offer other pest control services for free), and in the event that the bees should leave of their own accord just before a person arrives to remove them, they may charge you a call out fee. Find out, and keep people informed.
Also, check what methods they use, and whether the bees would be harmed, and whether they use pesticides. If it's a swarm, there shouldn't be any reason for the local authority to use pesticides.
Just a thought….Have you ever considered becoming a beekeeper? Do you frequently see swarms of bees? If so, take a look at the resources on this site.
If the swarm is temporary, then for the very short time it is around, you will have a unique opportunity to observe this amazing act of nature, and you may not have this privilege again!
If the bees are not causing any real problem, the most important action to take if you can, is to relax and not worry. It may also turn out to be the cheapest.
More information:
Swarming Bees
Learn more about this fascinating phenomenon.
Need Advice About Other Bee Species?
Help and information regarding other species of bees, including bumble bees and carpenter bees.
Bees Nest Q&A
Useful information covering commonly asked questions about bee nests of different bee species.
Wacky Fact
Did you know?
If the honey bee queen is removed
from a
hive, within 15 minutes,
the rest of the colony
will know about it! Read about