Got Bees?

If you have unwanted bees on your property, we may be able to help!

First, you will need to determine if you have spotted a swarm of bees or an established colony of bees.

swarm of bees is a group of bees that are in between homes.  They may have left their home because it has become overcrowded, or because it’s under threat from environmental or human factors.  Swarms are almost always on the move in springtime.

A swarm of bees will huddle together around their queen to protect her and a few scout bees will go leave the swarm to look for the best home in which to build their new colony.   Before leaving their home they’ve filled up on food and are therefore quite docile and will be unable to sting you.  A swarm of bees is generally very harmless.

Common places to spot swarms are on tree branches, fences, cars, etc. They will only remain in one spot temporarily and will be usually be gone within a day or two. There’s no need to call a specialist in this case.  Keep an eye on them however, because they may pick a new location to establish their hive on your property. However, if you have a swarm, and you contact us and we are able to catch the swarm, we will give you free honey as a thank you! Please email us your location and a picture if you are able to take one safely.

Swarms can be found most anywhere! A ball of bees, such as the one in the picture above, is indicative of a swarm. They may be gone in as little as a few hours or a few days.

If a few bees appear to be coming and going from your house or a water meter, chances are the bees are part of an established colony.  The bees have likely already begun building beeswax comb in order to store food and produce new bees. They build their comb in an enclosed space to protect it from predators.

Some popular spots for an established hive may be inside trees, water meters, the roof eaves, in between walls, or cracks and crevices under decks. Established colonies can be very protective of their hive, and in this case it is necessary for a hive to be professionally removed and relocated.  Never try to relocate an established hive on your own as these bees are likely to sting you if they recognize their established home as being under threat.

The Texas Apiary Inspection Service (TAMU) keeps a list of registered beekeepers who will provide this service  Keep in mind that bee removals are a highly skilled service, and therefore the service is likely one that they may charge for.  Additionally, if you’re on Facebook you can post in the Texas Bee Remover group. We strongly recommend you choose a removal service that is experienced and insured.  If the removal is done improperly, another swarm may move into the cavity.