What Are Honey Bee Swarms?
A honey bee swarm is a natural phenomenon where a large group of honey bees temporarily gathers together to form a cluster, typically during the spring or early summer. Swarming is the honey bee colony's primary method of reproduction, allowing them to establish new colonies and expand their populations. It is part of the bees' natural lifecycle, and although it may seem alarming or unusual, swarming is generally harmless and temporary.
Are Honey Bee Swarms Dangerous?
Swarming honey bees are generally not aggressive. During a swarm, the bees are focused on finding a new home and are not concerned with defending their hive. They have full stomachs of honey from the hive, which makes them less likely to sting. However, like any bee, they can sting in self-defense if provoked.
If you encounter a bee swarm in a safe place, it is best to stay calm and give the bees space. They will typically move on to their new home within a few hours or days. Swarming is a natural part of their life cycle, and the bees will not pose any significant threat unless disturbed.
Swarm Removal
If you come across a honey bee swarm in an urban or residential area, here are some things you can do:
Stay Calm: Avoid panicking or disturbing the swarm, the bees are much less defensive or aggressive when swarming.
Do not spray the Bees: Even spraying the bees with water can kill them in early spring, and it wont make them leave, if its out in the open the bees will likely leave in a few hours.
Do Not Attempt to Handle It Yourself: Without experience, handling a swarm can be dangerous, and it's best to leave it to trained professionals.
Call a Professional: Heritage Apiary can make sure that a local bee keepers comes to collect the bees and rehome them to a new colony.
