Many people are afraid of bees due to the threat of bee stings. In most cases, bees are not dangerous to humans unless you are allergic. They are a necessary component of the ecosystem and responsible for pollinating many of the plants we eat. All the same, a hive can sometimes be built in an inconvenient location, and bee removal does become necessary on occasion.
The Life of Bumblebees
Whenever you identify a bee colony living near your home or office, the first step to removal is correctly identifying the bee species. Bumblebees have different habits than carpenter bees and honey bees, and understanding these habits will aid in your pest control efforts.
Bumblebees are docile and live in small colonies. They prefer to nest in grass clumps or old mouse holes, but they can also make their homes in birdhouses, under porches, in old planters, or in any other cozy space. The colonies are created by a single queen who populates the nest with workers and drones. These workers are most active in the late spring and early summer when they do most of their pollination work.
As fall approaches, these worker bees will die, and the pregnant queen will lie dormant until it’s time to restart the colony. This means attempting to remove a nest at the wrong time of year can destroy an entire generation or two of bees. Since bumblebees are already in great danger of extinction due to agricultural changes, losing this colony can be devastating. This is why great care must be taken to relocate the nest to a safe place rather than exterminating the bees.
How to Remove a Nest
Once it has become clear that bee removal is necessary, removing the nest can begin. First, an alternative nesting site should be prepared. This can be as simple as an overturned pot or large box. It should work as long as it’s lined with grass and has an entrance hole. The new nest should be located at least two miles from the old one.
Bee removal can be challenging, and it’s best to leave it to professionals. If you have an unwanted beehive near your home or business, contact ABC Orlando so we can help you safely remove bees.