Responding to the Call: A Honeybee Colony in an ICV Box
Last week, we received a call from Deidra and Lisa, both members of a Las Vegas HOA, about a honeybee colony that had taken up residence in an ICV (Irrigation Control Valve) box on their property.
Given that Las Vegas was experiencing unusually cold weather with temperatures in the 50s, we decided to delay the removal until it warmed up. Removing bees in cold weather increases the risk of harming both the adult bees and their brood, so we always wait for optimal conditions.
Why Timing Matters in Bee Removals
We always aim to remove bees when the weather is warm—preferably when it's at least 60°F. Bees become sluggish in cold temperatures, and disturbing them when it's chilly can result in harming the colony, especially their vulnerable baby bees. The safety of the colony is always our priority.
Perfect Conditions for Bee Removal
Saturday finally brought the warmth we needed, with the temperature hitting a comfortable 60°F. So, we headed out for the removal. Upon arrival, we noticed the bees were completely calm, busy doing what bees do best: gathering nectar and pollen. However, we knew that once we disturbed their hive, that calm would change.
The Bees' Fierce Defense
As soon as we began opening the top of the ICV box, things took a quick turn. The bees came out like a swarm of tiny rockets! We used our smoker before lifting the lid, but these determined ladies were unfazed. Bees were buzzing around, bouncing off our suits as we got to work.
Cutting and Framing the Comb
Despite the chaotic scene, we remained focused. Betsy started cutting the comb, and I framed them. To our surprise, there was almost no honey left in the hive—likely consumed by the colony to survive the winter. Now that spring is near, the bees were running on reserves, which is why they were so focused on bringing in nectar and pollen from the blooming rosemary nearby.
A Packed Hive of 10,000 Bees
This ICV box was packed tight with at least 10,000 bees! It felt like the clown car at a circus—except instead of clowns, it was bees pouring out. And unlike clowns, these bees weren’t thrilled about the intrusion.
We did everything we could to keep them calm, but there are times when nothing works, and this was one of those times. We quickly realized that we had to speed up the process to get the job done safely.
Moving the Hive to the Henderson Apiary
Once the comb was cut, we framed the healthiest brood and saved the little honey and nectar we could find. The larger comb pieces that were brittle or empty were left out. The bees were relocated to our friend's Henderson apiary, where they’ll have plenty of space to rebuild and thrive.
Defensive Bees and Unexpected Visitors
During the removal, a board member from the HOA stopped by to check in on the progress. Thankfully, he stayed in his car—probably a wise decision with so many bees in a defensive mode!
It’s rare for bees to be this stirred up, but sometimes the disruption of their hive triggers a strong reaction. After a couple of hours, the bees started to calm down. Once they settle into their new hive, we’re confident they’ll return to their usual hardworking selves.
Why Protecting Bees Matters
Strong, resilient colonies like this are vital to the ecosystem, especially in harsh desert environments like the Las Vegas Valley. The HOA’s decision to relocate, rather than exterminate, the bees is a perfect example of how we can all help protect our precious pollinators.
Ensuring a Sustainable Future for Honey Bees
By safely removing and relocating bees to sustainable apiaries like ours, we help support healthy honeybee populations. These bees play an essential role in pollinating plants, ensuring the sustainability of our food system and our environment.
Thank you, Deidra and Lisa, for allowing us to save your bees!
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.