Understanding Bee Swarming
Bee swarming represents a natural process for honeybee colonies to reproduce and expand. When a colony grows too large for its current hive, a portion of the bees, including the old queen, departs to establish a new home. It ensures the continuation of the species by creating new colonies.
A bee swarm typically appears as a dense, buzzing cloud of bees in flight, which then settles into a compact cluster on a surface like a tree branch, or fence. This cluster, often described as football-shaped, can contain thousands of bees surrounding their queen. During this temporary phase, the bees are generally docile. They are engorged with honey, making them less inclined to sting, and their primary focus is on finding a new nesting location rather than defending a hive.
Triggers and Timing of Swarming
Honeybee swarming is primarily triggered by overcrowding within the existing hive. As a colony thrives and its population increases, especially with abundant spring resources, the hive can become congested. This prompts the colony to raise a new queen, and the old queen then leaves with a significant portion of worker bees to form a new colony.
Swarming typically occurs in spring and early summer, often between April and July, with peak activity in May and June. After leaving the original hive, the swarm will temporarily cluster, often for a few hours to several days, while scout bees search for a permanent new home.
Responding to a Bee Swarm
When encountering a bee swarm, remaining calm and maintaining a safe distance is important. Avoid disturbing the bees with sudden movements, loud noises, or by attempting to spray them with water or pesticides. Swarming bees are usually not aggressive because they have no hive or stored food to defend, making them less likely to sting unless provoked.
Contacting a local beekeeper or a beekeeping association is the most recommended course of action for swarm removal. These individuals are experienced in safely collecting and relocating swarms, which helps ensure the bees’ survival. Trying to remove a swarm yourself is generally not recommended due to the risk of stings and potential harm to the bees.