Bee Swarm in January? What to Do in Arizona

Bee Swarm in January? What to Do in Arizona

Believe it or not, even in January, you might spot a honey bee swarm in Arizona! While much of the country is blanketed in snow, Arizona's mild winters can sometimes trigger swarming behavior. If you find a cluster of bees on your property, don't panic. Here's what you should do:

!Bees swarming in Gilbert, Arizona (opens in a new tab)

This photo, taken just days ago in Gilbert, AZ, shows a swarm that was reported and rescued through Swarmed. Here's what you need to know:

1. Stay Calm and Observe

Swarms are typically docile. The bees are full of honey and don't have a hive to defend. Keep a safe distance (10-15 feet) and keep children and pets away.

2. Identify if it's a Swarm

A swarm looks like a large ball or cluster of bees, usually hanging from a tree branch, bush, or even a building. They're in transit, searching for a new permanent home. If the bees are actively going in and out of a hole in a wall or roof, it's likely an established colony, not a swarm.

3. Report the Swarm Immediately

Time is of the essence! The sooner a beekeeper can collect the swarm, the better their chances of survival. Report the swarm on Swarmed. This free platform connects you with local beekeepers who will come and collect the swarm, often at no charge.

4. Why Report to Swarmed?

• Free Service: Beekeepers want swarms! They're valuable resources for expanding their beehives.
• Protect Honey Bees: Honey bee populations are declining. Swarm rescue helps conserve these vital pollinators.
• Support Local Beekeepers: You're helping local beekeepers grow their colonies sustainably.
• Safe and Fast: Avoid calling exterminators who will kill the bees. Contacting a beekeeper is the best option.

5. What Happens After You Report?

Local beekeepers in your area will be notified. The closest beekeepers and newcomers get notified first. A beekeeper will contact you to assess the swarm and arrange for collection to safely relocate the bees to a new hive.

What if it's an Established Colony?

If the bees have already built a hive inside a wall or structure, removal is more complex and requires specialized skills. Beekeepers will typically provide a quote for this service, called a "cutout," based on the difficulty and repairs needed. You can accept or reject the quote.

Not Sure if it's Bees?

Even if you're not sure whether it's honey bees, wasps, or something else, report it anyway! Swarmed's image recognition system can help identify the insects, so that we can provide appropriate guidance.

Ready to Help?

Report that swarm and give these bees a chance to thrive! You'll be helping the environment, supporting local beekeepers, and ensuring these vital pollinators continue their important work. Report now at https://beeswarmed.org/report-bee-colony (opens in a new tab).