Beekeepers Who Recapture Honey Bees

When a honey bee colony outgrows its current space, the queen and roughly half the bees leave to find a new home. First they land on a tree branch, bush, or some other location usually 3-15 feet off the ground. This soft, fuzzy group of bees is called a swarm, and is typically the size of a football or basketball, though it may spread out. They stay this way for a few hours or a few days, while scout bees are looking for a new suitable place to live. Then the swarm leaves.
(Honey bee swarms do not look like nests made of paper.)

While the swarm is formed, the bees are extremely gentle. They have no home to protect, no young to care for, and no honey stores. Call a beekeeper right away as soon as you notice a swarm appearing, so we can come collect them and relocate the bees to an apiary where they will be cared for. For the wellbeing of the bees, please do not apply any sprays or treatments.

Bees vs Not Bees

Using the chart below, try to identify whether what you have are actually honey bees (bottom left). Sending photos to the beekeeper is always appreciated

Swarm Catchers and Honey Bee Removers

If indicated, these members remove honey bee swarms, usually at no cost and/or will remove honey bees from structures (called a cut-out) usually for a fee. Contact one as soon as you notice a swarm of honey bees. Be prepared to describe the swarm size, exact location and height from the ground. For the well being of the swarm, please do not apply any treatments.

Will County Beekeepers Association members will make an attempt to provide services for honey bee swarm removal in the Will County area and surrounding counties as available.

Our members may also travel to other areas in greater Chicagoland including the West suburbs and South suburbs.