Bees are of great importance as pollinators for honey and wax but are usually thought of as a threat when in swarms.

Because they are so beneficial for their production of honey and beeswax, many colonies are ‘owned’ by beekeepers who often move hives around in order to pollinate crops.

Although swarms of bees can be frightening, most would be unlikely to sting unless under serious threat or if a hive is approached too closely. Some bees cannot sting at all and others don’t have a strong enough sting to pierce the skin.

Wasps and bees are often mistaken for each other as they have a number of similarities, however, wasps are a much higher threat than bees and it is beneficial to be able to recognise the difference. For some differences between the two, visit Bees v Wasps.

Although not a protected species, Honey Bees should not be killed or harmed without justifiable reason or through the use of pesticides.

Protectahome recommend contacting The British Beekeepers Association for advice and support on removing swarms of bees safely and efficiently. Protectahome are unable to remove bees unless it is extenuating circumstances and only as a last resort. This is not only due to the importance of honey bees to the environment, but also because due to pollination, any insecticides used could then cross-contaminate, becoming a danger to other insects and animals. Therefore, we recommend a local beekeeper as the best option to remove a swarm, if possible.

For more information on Pest Control and Bee Removal by Protectahome and associated services we provide, please see our Case Studies or to speak to our Pest Control Department please Contact Us on 0800 055 6966 or alternatively email us via pestcontrol@protectahome.co.uk