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Not sure if it's wasps or bees? Why we rarely eradicate bees, but instead use beekeepers to collect and preserve honey bees
HOW WE CAN HELP YOU DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN WASPS AND BEES
Bees can set up home in chimneys and cavities of your property. This can be unsettling and some people can find it difficult to determine if these are bees or wasps and need some help and reassurance.
It is important to differentiate, as bees and wasps are treated differently and we can help to make that identification.
If there is a wasp or hornet nest we can treat it and deal with the associated health and safety issues. If it proves to be honey bees, a swarm might simply move on (see below) or we can contact experienced beekeepers on your behalf.
If you would like us to visit we charge just £80 with no VAT or additional costs. Why not give us a call. We'll help!
WHAT YOU CAN DO IF THERE IS A SWARM
A swarm has been described as homeless bees with a queen. Swarming is a natural consequence of a growing population and the need for some of the colony to depart and find a new home.
A swarm can be quite intimidating and typical scenarios are hundreds of bees suddenly appearing on a tree branch, car, wall, fence post or in a hedge.
The swarm is waiting for scout bees to scout out an ideal home to locate to. In this state, the bees are docile. They are not interested in defending the colony, but are awaiting communication from the scout bees to decide where to move.
The BPCA have provided this explanation: "In almost all cases the swarm will take off again within a day or two to occupy a most suitable permanent home elsewhere."
As the photo above shows, beekeepers are also committed in relocating a swarm into supported and managed hives. Time is of the essence though, because as just quoted by the BPCA the swarm only lands for a day or two.
If our beekeepers can get to you in time, they will gladly collect the swarm without charge and this will prevent the bees from colonising any part of your property. Please feel free to contact us and if possible we will endeavour to arrange this.
WHY PEST CONTROLLERS RARELY ERADICATE BEES
Bees are an important and beneficial species, crucial to the pollination of crops and rarely considered a pest. Contrary to popular belief, bees are not protected, but they are endangered. Hence, most pest controllers won't consider treating bees unless they are a significant threat to public health and safety.
We will always consider other options first, with eradication as a last resort. The skill and knowledge of beekeepers provides these vital alternatives.
HOW OUR BEEKEEPERS CAN REMOVE A SWARM OF HONEY BEES FROM YOUR PROPERTY
They are experienced and have the knowledge and equipment to collect the queen bee which is crucial in removing the swarm. Once a swarm has been collected, either by gathering it or removal from a property, it is safely transported and relocated to a managed hive site.
THE COST OF BEE REMOVAL
As mentioned earlier in the article, Three Counties Pest Control charge just £80 with no VAT, to visit a property. If there is a wasp or hornet nest to be treated there is no additional charge, except our current standard charge of £80.
If there is a bee colony we will provide a survey to convey the extent and location of the colony to our beekeepers, who can then assess the removal. They do not charge for removing accessible colonies or swarms and will gladly provide expert advice for established and complex colonies.
If you would like any further information or advice please do not hesitate to contact us.