So, I think I have a swarm of honeybees
Don’t panic! Don’t call an exterminator!
Call a local beekeeper!!
Honeybees are not aggressive unless provoked. Most swarms are docile so monitoring from a distance and taking photos to send the beekeeper to confirm it is a honeybee colony, will likely be well tolerated.
Do NOT bother the honeybee swarm while waiting for the beekeeper.
First, what exactly is a swarm of honeybees?
Swarming is a natural process for honeybees. The colonies generally swarm in the spring as their colony grows exponentially. As the colony grows they may find their current “home” unfit, due to many reasons, such as being too congested.
When the queen is ready, she will leave the hive and is followed by about half of the worker bees, creating a large “cloud” of bees that will find a nearby tree, land, or structure to cluster onto and cover the queen.
*An important thing to note for the beekeeper, when able, is how long the cluster of bees has been in that location. The bees generally tend to stay in a location for only a couple hours and then travel to another area that scout bees have tagged as more ideal, until they are able to find a new hive or cavity to occupy. Time is of the essence for the beekeeper to be able to safely collect the colony.
Should I be worried that the swarm is dangerous and likely to sting me or my kids?
When honeybees swarm, they are not nearly as defensive as they may be when they are around their hive. Once they have swarmed, they have no food stores or brood (developing honeybees) to protect. They are in an “emergency” home scouting mission and actively trying to protect the queen by clustering over her. So, they are rather distracted and will likely not be concerned with you watching from a distance. BUT, if you disturb or agitate their cluster, they will likely try and defend themselves by stinging. Call your local beekeeper as soon as you have noticed the cluster of bees so they can remove the colony safely.
Who should I call if I have a swarm of honeybees on my property?
If you are within approximately 25-30 miles of Maryville, TN call or text us at 865-978-1106! We will gladly come and gently rehome the swarm of honeybees to our mini farm.
Honeybee swarms are time sensitive so the faster you can call, the better! If you are comfortable and can capture some photos or videos to send us in addition to the call or text, that would be greatly appreciated! That way we can bring the appropriate equipment based upon the colony size.
Keep in mind, this service if completely FREE!
If you are outside of our travel range, we can put you into contact with other beekeepers that may be more local to your area of Tennessee!