Removing Swarms and Un-wanted Bee Colonies
Under ideal conditions, a strong, established honey bee colony will subdivide, and one or more swarms will leave the hive. It is their way of reproducing. A swarm may cluster for a while on an exposed tree limb or bush near the old hive while scout bees search for a suitable place to establish a permanent new home.
Folks often become concerned when they find swarms clustering in their yards. After all, it’s a lot of bees, and bees sting, right? Actually, honey bees most often exhibit defensive behavior near their nests, where they are concerned with protecting their young and food supply (honey!). A honey bee swarm has neither young nor food stores and isn’t likely to exhibit defensive behavior unless unduly provoked.