Got A Swarm?
If you come across or have a swarm of honey bees on your property please do not destroy it unless it is an emergency.
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Swarms may look alarming but are normally very calm as long as they are left alone. You are most likely to see swarms from May to the end of July.
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Please access the British Beekeeping association website (swarm collection) to find a local beekeeper who will collect swarms. https://www.bbka.org.uk/pages/category/swarm-removal
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People get confused between wasps, bumblebees, solitary bees and honeybees. If possible, take some pictures with your phone, you can then share them with the beekeeper once you have made contact.
Please check the BBKA website for advice on telling honey bees from other bees or flying insects:
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If you have a problem with wasps or hornets then we suggest you contact your local county council pest control department.
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If you have bees in the structure of your property you can find advice here: https://www.bbka.org.uk/swarm
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Bumblebees are generally harmless unless they feel threatened. Their nests do not contain large numbers of bees and are only used for one summer, with the occupants departing at the end of summer. They do not cause structural damage. Should you have a bumblebee nest in your garden or house you should consider leaving it alone as British bumblebees are in decline.
Further information about bumble bees can be found at: https://www.bumblebeeconservation.org/
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Please note beekeepers will not remove bumble bee nests.
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Asian Hornet
This is an invasive species that is not native to the UK. It looks like a large black wasp with a single orange band on its abdomen, orange face and yellow legs. Asian hornet nests MUST NOT BE APPROACHED as these insects can aggressively defend their nest.
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If you think you have seen an Asian Hornet please read the following information about how to report it.
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https://www.bbka.org.uk/Pages/FAQs/Category/asian-hornet-faqs
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