Honey bee swarming is a natural process where a single colony reproduces by splitting. It involves a significant portion of worker bees and the old queen leaving their established home to find a new nesting site. This behavior is essential for the survival and expansion of honey bee populations.
Understanding Swarming Season
Honey bee swarming typically occurs during spring and early summer. In the Northern Hemisphere, this period spans from March to July, with peak activity in May and June. Exact timing varies regionally, influenced by local climate and floral resources. Swarms usually emerge during warmer hours. After leaving their hive, bees often cluster temporarily on objects like tree branches. This stop, lasting hours to days, allows scout bees to find a suitable new home.
Why Bees Swarm When They Do
Several biological and environmental factors prompt swarming. A primary reason is colony growth and overcrowding. As the population expands, the hive becomes congested, limiting space for brood rearing and honey/pollen storage.
The queen bee’s age and productivity also play a role. An aging queen may produce fewer pheromones, chemical signals that maintain colony cohesion. A decline in these pheromones can signal workers to raise new queens and split the colony.
Environmental conditions influence when swarming occurs. Abundant spring nectar and pollen lead to rapid population increase, providing resources for a new colony. Warm temperatures and clear, calm weather offer ideal flying conditions. Poor ventilation or high humidity within the hive can also contribute to swarming.
What to Do If You Encounter a Swarm
Encountering a bee swarm can be alarming, but remain calm and observe from a safe distance. Swarming bees are generally docile; they are not defending a hive, stored honey, or young bees. They often engorge themselves with honey before leaving, making them less inclined to sting unless provoked. Avoid disturbing the swarm with loud noises, sudden movements, or by spraying them.
The most effective action is to contact a local beekeeper or beekeeping association. These professionals safely collect and relocate swarms without harming the bees. Avoid calling pest control unless they offer humane bee removal, as many methods harm bees. Most swarms are temporary and will move on their own within hours or days once scout bees find a new home. However, if bees enter a structure, professional assistance is necessary for safe removal.