Why do bees swarm?

In late spring and early fall when a beehive become overcrowded with bees, they are likely to swarm.

Swarming is a natural part of the growth of a bee colony and happens in response to crowding within the colony.

Prior to swarming, worker bees gorge themselves on honey. They thousand of worker bees, a few drones and the queen leave the hive in search of a new home.

The swarm will fly around briefly and then settle temporarily on a tree limb or other object as scout bees fly in search of a new home.

Bee swarms are not usually dangerous because the bees have no nest or baby bees to protect.

If the swarm relocates near a home or other high traffic area, an experienced beekeeper can come and relocate the swarm for you. Beekeepers who relocate swarms do so as a public service and may rightfully charge a fee.

The CVBA members listed here are available to remove swarms, depending on your location.