Have You Got a Honeybee Swarm?
If you have we can come and look to collect and rehouse the swarm. Note that we can only collect honeybees.
The bees must be accessible. If they are inside the structure of a building we cannot remove any part of the building to remove them
The swarm collection will not be charged for but a contribution to the Manchester & District Beekeepers Association would be appreciated
Why Do Bees Swarm?
Swarming is a natural part of a honeybee colony's reproductive cycle. It typically occurs in late spring or early summer when the conditions are just right. The bees may swarm due to overcrowding, the need for a new queen, or environmental factors. Understanding the reasons behind swarming helps us appreciate these remarkable insects and their adaptive behaviours.
The Swarming Process Explained
When a swarm happens, the worker bees first create a new queen and then leave the old queen behind, along with half the colony. This cluster of bees will usually settle temporarily on a branch or a fence post while scout bees search for a suitable new home. During this time, the swarm is at its most vulnerable, making it essential for local beekeepers and enthusiasts to be aware of their behaviours.
The Role of Honeybees in Our Ecosystem
Honeybees play a crucial role in pollinating many of the plants we rely on for food. Their work has a profound impact on biodiversity and agriculture. By fostering a better understanding of swarming and their behaviours, we can better appreciate how important these bees are in maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
What should you do if you have a swarm
The best thing you can do is leave them alone until a beekeepers arrives.
Do not try to move or feed them
Take some pictures on your phone, the beekeeper may ask for some
Honeybee Swarm Gallery
Welcome to the Honeybee Swarm Gallery at Littlemoss Bees.
Here, you can see images of swarms in various settings.
Get in Touch with us about a swarm
At Littlemoss Bees, we try to collect swarms as soon as we can, however if we can’t we may ask other members of Manchester Beekeepers to collect the swarm