What is a Swarm?
In spring, as colonies resume collecting resources and producting brood (young bees), it’s not uncommon for a portion of the colony to “swarm” – or leave the hive in search of a new home. This is perfectly natural bee behavior and is how bees develop new colonies. If you encounter a swarm, or large “ball” or group of bees, in an unusual place – Please call the Colorado Swarm Hotline at 1-844-779- 2337 (844-SPY-BEES)
Providing support to rescue swarms delivers numerous benefits to both bees, beekeepers and communities:
- Ideally prevents bee swarms from being killed with chemicals/insecticides or other methods
- If rescued properly, the swarm won’t take up residence in an unwanted location or cause unecessary property damage.
- Provides SEBC beekeepers with new colonies – at the low cost of just the time and effort to rescue the swarm
- Builds trust and goodwill and provides educational opportunities in local communities
- And many more!
What information will I need when I spot a swarm?
Several bee club members maintain the swarm hotline. If no one answers, please leave detailed information including a phone number of someone familiar with the swarm and the location, as specifically as you can. You will get a response as quickly as possible. The swarm will be caught and relocated to local apiary associated with the SEBC, or other beekeeping groups. Bee swarms are not sold.
Here are some of the questions the swarm hotline will ask:
- Are the bees brown and fuzzy? (hard and shiny are usually wasps or yellowjackets)
- Are the bees in a ball or cluster and can be seen easily?
- How far up in the air/tree/etc. are the bees?
- Are the bees inside of a wall, siding, tree trunk or other enclosed area?
- Has anyone sprayed the bees with pesticides?
I’m a 2024 registered member of the Southeast Beekeeping Club. How can I help rescue swarms?
A list of current Southeast Beekeeping club members willing to rescue swarms is maintained by club members who support the hotline. They are contacted in order, depending on factors including timing, location (both in terms of local towns and cities, but also height/complexity of the swarm site), and whether or not you’ve already rescued swarms each season. To be added to the list, please print and complete the following form. You may return it in person at an upcoming SEBC meeting.
