SWARMING
Report swarms
Dear residents of Hoeksche Waard, we collect bee swarms in the region. Let's contribute together to the conservation of bees by welcoming them in a safe and beneficial environment
Swarms of bees can be located in many different places.
Bees naturally tend to form new colonies by swarming, which means they separate from their original colony to form a new colony somewhere else. Here are some places you might find bee swarms:
In nature: Swarms may gather on tree branches, shrubs, rocks, or other outdoor surfaces.
Buildings and structures: Swarms can settle in hollow walls, attics, chimneys, garden sheds or other enclosed and sheltered spaces.
Mailboxes: Sometimes bees choose mailboxes as a gathering place.
Vehicles: Swarms can settle on parked vehicles, such as cars, bicycles, etc.
Outdoor equipment: Bees can also gather on outdoor equipment such as solar panels, poles, fences, etc.
Urban furniture: Benches, trash cans, kiosks and other elements of urban furniture can serve as landing sites for swarms.
Gardens and parks: Trees, shrubs and other plants in gardens and parks can also be chosen by bees to form a swarm.
We collected some swarms in 2023
If you see a swarm, send us a message on 06 57 15 67 12 with a photo and the location or call.
01
What is a bee swarm?
A bee swarm is a group of bees, including a queen, workers and drones, that leave their original hive to form a new colony.
02
Why do bees swarm?
Bees swarm to reproduce and start a new colony. The swarm leaves the original hive when the population of the colony has become too large or when conditions are favorable for establishing a new colony.
03
How do I recognize a bee swarm?
A bee swarm resembles a cluster of bees, often crowded together on a branch, fence or other supporting surface. They form a compact mass of bees.
04
What should I do if I find a bee swarm in my garden or on my property?
It is recommended that you contact a local beekeeper or swarm management professional to have the swarm safely retrieved. Do not attempt to destroy or chase away the swarm yourself.
05
Are bee swarms dangerous?
In general, bee swarms are not dangerous if left undisturbed. However, it is best to keep your distance and not disturb them until a beekeeper can pick them up.
06
How do beekeepers collect bee swarms?
Beekeepers often use a swarm box to collect the bees. They gently shake the bees into the box and transport them to a new hive.
07
Can bee swarms be housed in a beehive?
Yes, bee swarms can be transferred to a new beehive by a beekeeper. This allows them to survive and form a new colony.
08
What happens if a swarm is not collected?
If a swarm is not collected, it may settle temporarily somewhere and then look for a permanent location to build a hive.
09
How can I prevent bees from swarming my beehive?
Preventing swarms involves monitoring the bee population, ensuring adequate space and frames for honey storage and space for the queen to lay eggs.
10
Are bee swarms useful for pollination?
Yes, bee swarms play an essential role in plant pollination. They contribute to crop fertilization and food production.
11
Are bee swarms vulnerable to predators?
Bee swarms can be vulnerable to predators such as birds, hornets and spiders. However, the compact mass of bees can provide effective protection.
12
In which season are bee swarms most common?
Bee swarms are most common in spring and early summer, when colonies are most active and populations are growing.