Help Honey Bees

Found A Swarm?

Know the difference between a honey bee swarm and a cluster of hornets, or yellow jackets, or wasps??? 

There’s two types of swarms–one is called a bivouac–which is the type of honey bee swarm that you may see hanging in the air. The other type is called a “cut out” as the colony has set up residence inside a building, between walls–anywhere that it’s required to cut out materials of a structure to retrieve the swarm. 

Beekeepers also know that bees “swarm” as a natural process in reproduction–but, you shouldn’t see a hive that’s preparing to swarm–that happens in the apiary.

What if You Find a Swarm?

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Stay Calm!

Swarming bees are NOT angry–they’re just momentarily lost.

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Do Not Disturb!

Please do not spray or disturb the swarm.

Contact a Professional for Help!

Contact your local beekeeper or club for help in removing the swarm.

Colorado SpyBees Swarm Hotline: 1-844-SPY-BEES (1-844-779-2337)

To find a swarm hotline in a specific state, it’s best to check with your state or local: beekeeping association / club, Department of Agriculture. These organizations often maintain directories or lists of beekeepers who can assist with swarm removal.