As the year progresses the pest seasons continue to change.
Over the next few weeks we will start to see more and more bees flying around. This is due to the warmer weather and all of the plant life at this time of the year. People often come across swarms of honey bees and panic about what to do next. It is important to note that this is normal behaviour. So, we thought we should shed some further light on this, and what you should do if you find a swarm.
Firstly, why do honey bees swarm?
Bees are ultimately led by their queen, at this time of year they are actively seeking a hive and a stable food source. As they travel together in large numbers this causes the formation of a swarm. This is usually due to overcrowding in a current hive, or when a new queen emerges, pushing the existing queen and a group of worker bees out.
The swarm serves a practical purpose as the group will swarm together to protect the queen. It is very unlikely that a swarm will occur without the presence of a queen.
Swarms can often be seen in the strangest places. This is no accident. The group will be slow moving together and will rest frequently, they also require warmth to help charge them up and motivate them. Swarms will be very attracted to items including metal objects which are in direct sunlight, such as lamp posts and road signs because they are a great source of heat.
What should I do if I find a swarm?
It is very common and natural for people to feel uneasy about a swarm of honey bees. There is a misconception that they will hurt someone due to the sheer volume of them, or that they may be in distress and require help. The swarm is simply a normal and temporary state, and most will only stay in one place until they are naturally ready to move on of their own accord.
A swarm may occasionally find its way into a domestic setting, and this could be someone’s back garden, or around their property. This is when it is important to know what steps to take, especially if there are children or pets at the property.
If you do find a swarm then follow these simple steps to keep yourself safe
- Don’t panic!
- Do not attempt to disturb the swarm
- Contact a reputable company such as DALPEST or trained beekeeper who will help to relocate the bees to a safe and secure environment.
A trusted and qualified beekeeper will help to move the bees to a spare hive, in a location that they know or manage. It is worth noting this process only works for honey bees, and is not used for bumble bees or single bees.
Bees are important and destroying swarms is something that no one wants to see. DALPEST Pest Solutions are conscious of this and are working closely with local company The Green Backyard in Peterborough (Home – The Green Backyard) to utilise their on-site hives as a place to relocate stray swarms.
Trust DALPEST to take care of any honey bee issues you may have in a humane and professional manner, so please get in touch with us today at Bee Pest Control Services | DALPEST – 24/7 Pest Control or by calling 0333 2026 223 if you find a swarm.
