Removing bees from your home can be a delicate task, as bees are important for the environment and should be handled with care. Here are some steps to remove bees from your home:
Identify the type of bee and determine if it is honeybee or yellow jacket.
To identify the type of bee, observe its appearance and behavior:
Appearance:
- Honeybees are furry and golden-brown with black stripes. They are about 1/2 inch in length.
- Yellow jackets are smooth and shiny with yellow and black markings. They are about 3/4 inch in length.
Behavior:
- Honeybees are docile and are unlikely to sting unless provoked. They are important for pollination and are considered beneficial insects.
- Yellow jackets are aggressive and will sting if they feel threatened. They feed on other insects and sweets and can become a nuisance if they build a nest near a home.
It’s important to correctly identify the type of bee as the methods for removing them vary based on their species
Call a professional beekeeper or exterminator.
If you are not confident in removing the bees yourself, it’s best to call a professional. A beekeeper can safely remove the bees and relocate them to a new hive, preserving the colony and protecting the environment. If the bees are yellow jackets, an exterminator can remove the nest and eliminate the insects using safe and effective methods.
When calling a professional, make sure to provide them with a detailed description of the location and size of the bee colony. This will help them determine the best approach for removal and provide you with an accurate estimate for the cost of the service.
Seal off entry points to prevent further infestation.
Sealing off entry points is an important step in preventing a bee infestation from recurring. To do this:
- Locate all possible entry points where the bees are entering and exiting the building.
- Seal any cracks, holes, or gaps in walls, foundations, and roofs with caulk or foam sealant.
- Install screens on windows and vents to prevent bees from entering.
- Trim trees and bushes near the building to eliminate hiding places for bees.
It’s important to complete this step after the bees have been removed to prevent new colonies from forming in the same location.
Wait for the bees to leave on their own or use a safe removal method recommended by a professional.
After calling a professional, you have two options for removing the bees: waiting for them to leave on their own or using a safe removal method recommended by the professional.
Waiting for the bees to leave: This method is only recommended if the bee colony is small and located in an area that is not frequently used, such as an attic or garage. The bees will eventually leave on their own to forage for food and water.
Safe removal method: A professional beekeeper or exterminator will use a safe and effective method for removing the bees, depending on the location and size of the colony. This may include using a bee vacuum, bee trap, or a specially designed bee removal tool. The professional will take steps to minimize the risk of bee stings and prevent damage to the surrounding area.
It’s important to follow the advice and instructions of a professional when removing bees to ensure the safety of both the bees and yourself.
