Swarm collection
Free swarm collection, Durham & Tyne and Wear
If a cluster of bees has settled somewhere on your property, I'll come and collect them and give them a new home in one of my hives. Here's what's useful to know before you call.
Common questions
Is swarm collection really free?
Yes. Collecting a swarm gives the bees a home in one of my apiaries, so there's no charge — it's worth my time as much as yours.
The bees are inside my chimney, roof or a wall — can you still help?
That's a different job to a swarm hanging on a branch or fence. An established colony inside a cavity usually means more involved work, and isn't always something I can take on for free. Call or email anyway and I'll be straight with you about the options.
How quickly can you get here?
Usually the same day, especially during swarm season (April to August). A settled swarm will often stay put for a few hours to a day or two while scout bees look for a permanent home, but it's best not to wait.
Are swarming bees dangerous?
Generally not. A swarm has left its old hive and has no comb or brood to defend, so it's usually calm. Keep a sensible distance, keep children and pets away, and don't spray or disturb the cluster.
What happens to the bees afterwards?
I collect them into a travel box and rehive them at one of my apiaries in East Durham, where they're looked after like the rest of my colonies.