First swarm capture of the year in Las Vegas February 2023.
Upon receiving news of a swarm of bees on a tree branch in Michael's front yard in Las Vegas, we were immediately filled with joy and enthusiasm. We simply cannot resist the thrill of a good swarm-catching adventure.
Before delving into the exciting details, it is important to first discuss the reason behind bee swarming.
It is a natural process that occurs when a bee colony outgrows its current hive. The queen bee leads a group of worker bees in search of a new location to establish a new colony, kind of like, "ok friends, it's been fun, we're out of here," and then goes find a new place to live.
Upon arrival at the scene, we were fully equipped with all the necessary beekeeping gear, including our trusty bee suits, gloves, and veils. In addition, we brought along a bee box, smoker, and bee brush, as one can never predict what tools may be required when dealing with a swarm of bees.
Before approaching the swarm, we prioritized safety measures for both ourselves and the bees.
We utilized a smoker, which acts as a type of bee incense, to soothe the bees and reduce the likelihood of being stung. Only after ensuring everyone's safety did we approach the swarm and gently shake and brush them into the bee box.
Capturing a swarm of bees is not always a simple task and requires a great deal of patience and caution.
Any sudden movements may agitate these little rascals, resulting in unfavorable outcomes. Fortunately, we are seasoned experts and were able to successfully complete the task while securely sealing the bee box.
We then relocated the swarm back to our apiary, where we introduced them to their new home and provided them with everything necessary to thrive. While this may seem like a typical day in our line of work, it is important to note that attempting to capture a swarm of bees without proper experience and knowledge is highly discouraged.
For those interested in beekeeping:
It is recommended to enroll in classes and seek guidance from local beekeeping associations to learn the proper methods. Bees play a crucial role in pollination, and it is vital to ensure their protection and appreciation. See our Beekeeping for Beginners article.
In conclusion, our recent bee-catching adventure was a resounding success. We were able to relocate the swarm and contribute to the preservation of the local bee population.
Who knows? Perhaps another swarm call for our services will come tomorrow, presenting us with yet another opportunity to save the honeybees and the day.
Betsy and Pete
Las Vegas, Nevada
About Us: The Authors
We're Betsy and Pete, passionate Las Vegas beekeepers trained by a master in the field. With hundreds of successful bee and bee swarm removals under our belts, we're not just experts; we're enthusiasts committed to the well-being of these incredible pollinators.
We manage dozens of beehives, both natural and honey-bearing at our Joshua Tree Preserve.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Education is an ongoing journey, especially in a dynamic field such as beekeeping. That's why we continually update our knowledge base, collaborate with other experts, and stay up to date with the latest advancements in bee control methods and beekeeping practices.
We also provide top-tier beekeeping supplies, offering everything a beekeeper needs, from beginners to experts.