It may seem premature to be talking of swarms when some of us have only managed a couple of full inspections but things can change very rapidly.
If you do see a swarm then do not ring our Bee Inspector. Instead check out the BBKA web site. On there you will find links to help you identify a swarm and a map to show you all the local swarm collectors.
For those of you who have not come across a swarm before here are some useful points:
- Beekeepers only collect honey bees.
- We do not deal with wasps
- We do not deal with bumble bees.
- A swarm can appear as a terrifying invasion - it is not.
- The bees are looking for a new home - not a new victim!
- The bees are looking after their queen.
- When they have found a new home they will fly off there.
- I have collected many swarms and I never been stung whilst swarm collecting.
- Our ideal swarm is hanging from a branch within easy reach.
- Our most difficult are those in cavity walls - high up!
- Most swarms will move on within a few hours - as soon as they have found a better location.
- Once we have collected a swarm we will place it in one of our hives.
