Bumblebees are recognizable, stout insects covered in dense, fuzzy hair. They are incredibly important pollinators, playing a significant role in the reproduction of wildflowers and food crops. While people often search for lethal sprays to remove unwanted nests, this article prioritizes understanding the risks of chemical solutions. It explores responsible, non-lethal alternatives due to the bumblebee’s overall benefit to the ecosystem.
Identification and Nesting Habits
Before considering removal, confirm the insect is a bumblebee (Bombus) and not a more aggressive wasp. Bumblebees are robust and hairy, moving slowly, and rarely sting unless their nest is directly disturbed. Wasps, such as yellow jackets, are typically slender, smooth, and shiny with a distinct narrow waist, and they are noticeably more aggressive.
Bumblebee colonies are annual, meaning only new queens survive the winter to start a nest the following spring. These colonies are relatively small, often containing 50 to 400 individuals, and naturally die out by late autumn. Nests are usually found in existing sheltered cavities, most commonly in abandoned rodent burrows underground or under tufts of grass. They may also nest opportunistically in voids under sheds, compost heaps, or within wall insulation.
Chemical Agents and Associated Hazards
The sprays that are lethal to bumblebees are broad-spectrum insecticides. Common chemical classes include pyrethroids (like deltamethrin), carbamates (like methomyl), and neonicotinoids (like thiamethoxam or imidacloprid). These chemicals work by attacking the insect’s nervous system, leading to rapid paralysis and death.
Using these toxins near a nest entrance carries significant drawbacks beyond the target colony. As broad-spectrum toxins, they pose substantial environmental risks by contaminating surrounding soil and water and harming other beneficial insects. Residual effects can also hazard children and pets who contact the treated area. Furthermore, spraying a nest often fails to eliminate the entire colony, leading to the survival of agitated workers who may become more defensive.
Non-Lethal Removal and Coexistence Strategies
The easiest and safest strategy is often to practice coexistence, given the annual nature of the colony. Bumblebees are generally docile and will not sting unless their nest is physically threatened. Simply avoiding the nest entrance is usually sufficient, and patience prevents the need for intervention since the colony will naturally perish by the first hard frost.
Exclusion and Deterrence
If the nest location is truly problematic, exclusion or deterrence can encourage the bees to relocate naturally. Mild deterrents, such as placing cedar chips or peppermint-scented materials near the entrance, may encourage them to seek a different location. For a nest in a structure, an exclusion barrier like a fine mesh can be placed over the entrance. This should only be done after ensuring all bees have left, otherwise they will be trapped inside.
Safe Relocation
Relocation should only be attempted on small, accessible nests and only at night when all workers are inside and inactive. Use a red-filtered flashlight, as bees do not perceive red light, minimizing disturbance during the process. The entire nest, including the waxy cells and surrounding material, needs to be gently excavated in one piece using a shovel and transferred to a suitable replacement box. The new location should be sheltered and at least two miles away to prevent the bees from returning to the original site. The entrance should be sealed overnight before being opened the next morning.
When to Contact a Specialist
DIY removal should be avoided if the nest is large, located in an inaccessible area like a wall void, or if a family member has a severe allergy to stings. These scenarios present a higher risk of stings and require specialized equipment and expertise for safe handling.
When seeking professional help, distinguish between a standard pest exterminator and a specialized bee removal service or local beekeeper. Standard exterminators typically use lethal chemical sprays, resulting in the destruction of the beneficial colony. Look for services that explicitly offer live removal and relocation. Ask direct questions like, “Do you use chemical sprays?” and “Do you guarantee non-lethal relocation?” Professionals who prioritize relocation are equipped to handle the process humanely, transferring the nest to a more suitable environment.