Beekeeping in the Sunshine State: Winter Swarms in Florida?

While much of the country is hunkered down for winter, beekeepers in Florida know that swarm season can extend into the winter months. That's right, even in January, you could be getting a call about a swarm needing a new home.

Why Winter Swarms?

Florida's mild winters allow bees to stay active longer. A strong, healthy colony can sometimes outgrow its space even in the "off-season," leading to swarming. It's less common than the spring rush, but definitely something to be aware of.

A Recent Rescue in Kissimmee

Just last week, a swarm was spotted in a tree amidst a clump of Spanish Moss in Kissimmee (January 17, 2026). Luckily, a local Swarmed beekeeper was able to respond quickly and give those bees a new home. This goes to show that even when you least expect it, there are opportunities to expand your apiary.

Why Join Swarmed?

• Free Local Swarm Alerts: Get notified instantly when a swarm is reported near you. No more wasted time on Facebook waiting for someone to post about some bees!
• No Commitment: Use the platform as much or as little as you like. There are no obligations or hidden fees.
• Healthy Bees: Swarms are a fantastic way to acquire healthy, productive bees without the cost of purchasing a package.

What to Expect in January

• Keep an eye on the weather: Unseasonably warm spells can trigger swarm activity. Our beekeeper dashboard includes a swarm likelihood gauge that tracks how local whether might impact swarming.
• Check your equipment: Make sure you have your swarm catching gear ready to go. I personally like to use a cloth net at the end of a long extension pole.
• Stay connected: Ensure your notifications are turned on so you don't miss a potential swarm.

Ready to Expand Your Apiary?

Don't miss out on potential winter swarm opportunities! Join the Swarmed beekeeper network today and get free local swarm alerts. It's a simple way to find swarms in need of a beekeeper and grow your apiary.

Sign up here (opens in a new tab) and start receiving alerts for swarms near you.