A bee swarm is a natural event where a large group of honey bees, along with their queen, departs from an existing hive. This process is a fundamental aspect of honey bee reproduction and colony expansion. A swarm is typically a temporary phenomenon, indicating the bees are in a transitional phase.
The Temporary Nature of a Swarm
Most bee swarms are temporary, often remaining in a specific location for a few hours to a few days. During this period, the bees are not establishing a permanent residence but rather pausing as they seek a new home. Their primary focus remains on finding a suitable nest site, making them generally docile and less inclined to sting.
The bees are engorged with honey from their previous hive, providing them with energy for the journey and initial comb building. This stored honey also contributes to their reduced aggression, as their focus is on the move rather than defending resources.
Factors Influencing Swarm Duration
Several factors can influence how long a bee swarm remains in a particular spot. Weather conditions play a significant role; rain, strong winds, or extremely cold temperatures can delay their departure. Such conditions force the swarm to shelter in place until the environment becomes more favorable for flight.
The presence and health of the queen bee also affect the swarm’s movement. If the queen is lost or unhealthy, the swarm’s progress can be prolonged as the bees may become disoriented or struggle to proceed without her. The availability of suitable new nest sites is also a key factor; scout bees must locate and agree upon a new location before the entire swarm can move.
Human interference or disturbances can sometimes cause a swarm to settle for a longer period. Conversely, frequent disturbances might prompt them to move more quickly in search of a quieter location. The speed at which scout bees identify and communicate a viable new home directly impacts the swarm’s temporary stay.
What Happens Next for the Swarm
Once a swarm settles temporarily, scout bees immediately begin searching for a new, permanent nest site. These specialized bees investigate potential cavities such as hollow trees, rock crevices, or abandoned structures. Upon finding a promising location, a scout bee returns to the cluster to report her findings.
The scout bee communicates the attributes of the potential new home through a specialized “waggle dance” performed on the surface of the swarm. This dance conveys information about the direction, distance, and quality of the site. Other scout bees will then fly to investigate the advertised location, and if they agree it is suitable, they will also perform the waggle dance to further persuade the swarm.
Eventually, a consensus is reached among the scout bees, and the entire swarm will then take flight towards their chosen new home. Once they arrive, they immediately begin building new comb and establishing the new colony. This process ensures the continuation and expansion of the bee population.
Encountering a Bee Swarm
If you encounter a bee swarm, remain calm and maintain a safe distance. Swarming bees are generally not aggressive because they are not defending a hive or food stores. They are focused on finding a new home and are typically gentle during this transitional phase.
Avoid disturbing the swarm by poking it, throwing objects, or spraying it with water or insecticides. Such actions can agitate the bees and provoke defensive stinging behavior. Instead, observe the swarm from a respectful distance and ensure pets and children also stay clear.
For safe and humane removal, contact local beekeepers or professional bee removal specialists. Many beekeeping associations offer services to collect swarms, as they are often eager to acquire new colonies. Pest control services should only be considered as a last resort, particularly if the bees are non-native or pose an immediate threat that cannot be addressed by beekeepers.