Swarm Removal

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

If you see a honey bee swarm, like above, call one of our beekeepers from the list below. Please leave a detailed message that describes the swarm size, exact street address and location on the property, and height from the ground. Send photos if available.

These photos show wasp nests, which do not contain or support honey bees. Call an exterminator. Honey bees do not usually create nests in the open, preferring enclosed spaces.

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.

Beecher
Stephen Knickrehm
(708) 712-2726

Bolingbrook
Darien Kruss
(847) 274-3911

Channahon
James Etienne
(815) 714-3216

Crete
William Gray
(773) 617-0288

Glenwood
Michael Rusnak
(708) 755-4705

Manhattan
Beau Wright
(815) 272-6334

Midlothian
Rick Lorenz
(708) 388-4884

Minooka
Fran Miller
(815) 409-6974

Naperville
Felicia Akman
(847) 530-9200

Orland Park
Jerry Stechmiller
(708) 606-3655

Oswego
Jim Blough
(815) 570-9463

Shorewood
Susan Gregory
(815) 474-9785

Will County Beekeepers Association members will make an attempt to provide services for 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.