When a honey bee colony becomes too congested, typically in the spring or summer, half of the bees will leave with the queen to find a new/suitable location. Swarms will typically re-congregate in a nearby location while “scout bees” seek out a new nesting location. This activity could take anywhere from 15 minutes to several days.
Swarming is the natural process honey bees use to reproduce. And despite popular belief, honey bee swarms don’t want to sting you. They’re not in defense mode because they don’t have a hive, eggs, or honey to protect.
BUT FIRST… is it a honey bee swarm?
If you aren’t sure, here’s a couple of resources to help you to answer the question. Before you contact a beekeeper from the list, first make sure that the swarm is made up of honey bees. If not, you’ll need to contact an exterminator.
Image credit (& for more info): Wild Bee Project (Salt Lake City, UT)
YouTube video: How to Identify Bees and Wasps
What should I do if I see a honeybee swarm?
Swarming is the natural process that honey bees use to reproduce. Contrary to popular belief, honey bee swarms don’t want to sting you. They’re not in defense mode because they don’t have a hive, eggs, or honey to protect. So, don’t disturb them and use our contact list (above) to locate a local beekeeper to remove the swarm!
TBoI Swarm Contact List (← click here)
To learn more about honey bee swarms, visit https://learnbees.com/bee-swarm (the source for this information).
If you are a TBoI member and would like to be included on the swarm list, or if you are on the list and would like to request an update, contact secretary.tboi@gmail.com.