Bees in Your Building? Here's What Sacramento Homeowners Need to Know

Finding a cluster of bees on your property can be a bit startling. Located in the Central Valley, where there are hundreds of thousands of bee colonies, these situations aren't uncommon in Sacramento.

But before you reach for the phone, let's figure out what's going on. Are they just passing through, or are they setting up shop? Knowing the difference can save you money and help our precious pollinators.

Swarm or Established Colony: Do You Know the Difference?

This is key! A swarm is a temporary cluster of bees, usually hanging on a tree branch or the side of a building. They're in transit, looking for a new home. These bees are typically docile and not interested in stinging you, they're just full of honey and focused on finding a place to live. Think of them as temporary visitors!

An established colony, on the other hand, has already built a hive, with wax comb, honey stores, and baby bees (brood). They've moved in and are now defending their home. These bees are much more likely to sting if they feel threatened.

Why It Matters: Free Swarms vs. Paid Cutouts

Here's the best part: swarm collection is usually free! Local beekeepers are eager to catch these transient swarms and give them a new home in their apiaries. They're providing a valuable service to the community and expanding their bee yards at the same time. It's a win-win!

However, if bees have already established a hive in your walls, attic, or shed, that's a different story. Removing an established hive (also known as a "cutout") requires specialized skills, carpentry work, and can take hours or even days. This is because the beekeeper needs to carefully remove the comb, extract the bees, and repair any damage to your property. Because of the time and skill involved, expect the beekeeper to provide a fair quote for this service. You can then decide if you want to proceed.

Found Bees Inside Your Sacramento Structure? Here's What To Do:

1. Stay Calm: Don't panic. Bees are generally not aggressive unless provoked.
2. Keep Your Distance: Maintain a safe distance of at least 10-15 feet.
3. Report It! The fastest way to connect with local beekeepers who can help is by reporting the swarm (or potential hive) through Swarmed. You can submit a report here: https://beeswarmed.org/report-bee-colony (opens in a new tab)
4. Let Local Beekeepers Handle It: Whether it's a free swarm collection or a quoted cutout, experienced beekeepers have the knowledge and equipment to safely handle the situation.

Why Report to Swarmed?

• It's completely free to report!
• Connect with local beekeepers
• Protects honey bees: Instead of calling an exterminator, you're giving these vital pollinators a chance to thrive.
• Supports local beekeepers: You're helping them expand their apiaries and contribute to our local ecosystem.

So, Sacramento, if you spot a cluster of bees, don't hesitate! Report it to Swarmed and let our community of beekeepers take care of the rest. You'll be helping the bees, your community, and maybe even saving yourself some money!