Help! I have bees in my house/tree/sidewalk/etc.!
UD does not routinely collect honey bee swarms or feral colonies. For help with bee removals, contact one of our local beekeeping clubs for a list of experienced beekeepers who can help you out.
When contacting a local beekeeper for help with a swarm, have as much information on hand as possible. Helpful information includes: location of the insects, how long have they been present, if any measures already been taken to remove them, photos of the location/entry point, and clear pictures of the insects for identification (dead or alive)
Note: A “swarm” is a cluster of bees hanging in a tree, fencepost, or something similar. Swarm removals are often simple and free of charge. Sometimes however, a honey bee colony establishes itself within a structure- building comb, storing honey, and producing brood. In these instances, the structure must usually be cut open to remove the bees as well as all of their nest material to prevent reinfestation and any future damage to the structure. This is referred to as a “cut out” which should be performed by an experienced beekeeper, and usually includes a fee.
Delaware Beekeepers Association
Chester County Beekeepers Association
