Swarm Removal

Do you have a swarm of bees on your property?

Swarming is an instinctive part of the annual life cycle of a honeybee colony. It provides a mechanism for the colony to reproduce itself. Bees in a swarm are generally docile and not inclined to sting or attack, and they will usually leave within a few days on their own for a more permanent location.

However, if you have a swarm that has permanently settled, or you are anxious to have it removed, you can contact a local beekeeper who may be able to remove the bees without killing them. To locate a beekeeper:

  1. Look in the Yellow Pages under BEEKEEPER or HONEY.
  2. Find a local beekeeping association in Ontario. Some of their websites will post contact information of local beekeepers who can help with swarms.
  3. Contact your closest Ontario Bee Inspector.
  4. Ask your fire or police department. They often have lists of beekeepers who will take unwanted bees.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE BEES YOURSELF UNLESS YOU ARE AN EXPERIENCED BEEKEEPER!