Winter Bees in LA? What to Do About Swarms in January

Even in January, you might spot a cluster of honey bees in Los Angeles. What should you do? Don't panic! It's likely a swarm, and here's your guide to handling it safely and responsibly.

What is a Swarm?

A swarm is a group of honey bees – usually 10,000 to 30,000 – that have left their hive to find a new home. Swarming is a natural part of the honey bee life cycle, and surprisingly, it can happen even in winter in warmer climates like Southern California. These bees are usually docile because they're full of honey and don't have a hive to defend. They'll cluster on a tree branch, fence, or even a building while scout bees search for a suitable new location.

Is it a Swarm or an Established Hive?

This is crucial to know. A *swarm* is temporary and usually free to remove. An *established hive* has built comb inside a structure (wall, roof, shed) and requires a paid removal service. Look for these signs:

• Swarm: A tight cluster of bees with no visible comb. They'll likely move on in a few hours or days.
• Established Hive: Bees constantly flying in and out of a hole in a structure. This means they've built a home and aren't going anywhere without help.

What to Do If You Find a Swarm in Los Angeles

1. Stay Calm: Swarms are generally not aggressive unless provoked. Keep children and pets away.
2. Maintain a Safe Distance: 10-15 feet is a good rule of thumb.
3. Report the Swarm: This is where Swarmed comes in! Report the swarm on our platform, even if you're not 100% sure they're honey bees. Our AI can help identify the insects, and we'll connect you with local beekeepers ready to help.
4. Let the Beekeeper Assess: A local beekeeper will come to assess the situation. If it's a swarm, they'll usually remove it for free. If it's an established hive, they'll provide a quote for removal (this is called a "cutout").

Why Report to Swarmed?

• Free Service: Reporting is always free for the public.
• Protect Honey Bees: You're helping save valuable pollinators.
• Support Local Beekeepers: You're connecting them with a valuable resource.
• Avoid Exterminators: Extermination is costly and harmful to the environment. Beekeepers offer a humane solution.

What if it's an Established Hive?

If the bees have already built comb in a wall or structure, removal requires specialized skills and carpentry work. Expect the beekeeper to provide a fair quote based on the complexity and repairs needed. You can accept or reject the quote.

Ready to help bees and your community? Report a bee colony (opens in a new tab) today!