How to handle a bee cluster (swarm) or the presence of bees

At Alvéole, we are dedicated to caring for the hives we manage for our clients. However, please note that we do not collect wild swarms of bees in the city or retrieve bees that are found inside homes.

If you notice a bee cluster (swarm) of bees:

• If it is clearly from one of our hives (for example, a swarm on your property near our installed hive), please contact us.

• If it is not from our hive, we recommend contacting a local beekeeping association or a beekeeper in your area who can safely collect the swarm.

• It may also be wasps. In this case, we are not trained or equipped to remove them. See below how to differentiate them.

Process if a swarm is on your property with one of our hives

If you believe the swarm comes from an Alvéole hive on your site, please reach out to us as soon as possible:

Contact us by phone or email to support@alveole.buzz with the following information:

• Subject: Emergency - (Client name and building address)

• A brief description of the problem 

• Your contact details: name, phone number, email

• Any photos or useful information: include the location of the bees on your property, and note if they are high up

  This will help us act quickly and send a beekeeper if needed.

What is a swarm?

A swarm happens when a colony becomes too large or when conditions in the hive trigger reproduction. A portion of the bees, along with a queen, leave their hive to find a new home.

• Swarms may look intimidating, but they are generally not dangerous.

• Bees in a swarm are usually calm and not defensive, because they are focused on finding a new home. They are often full of honey, which makes them less likely to sting, but they may still sting if provoked.

• In most cases, swarms will naturally leave within 24–48 hours.

Safety guidelines if you see a swarm

• Keep a safe distance and do not disturb the bees.

• Do not spray water or any products on them.

• Avoid sudden movements near the swarm.

• Inform others in the area so they are aware.

Our limitations

• If bees enter your home or building (walls, roof, or other structures), we do not provide removal services.

• Bees cannot or should not be exterminated in many regions, especially honeybees, because they are protected and vital for the environment. Instead, they must be collected by a licensed beekeeper and relocated to a hive.

Distinguishing Wasps from Bees

To tell the difference between wasps and bees, look at their appearance and their nests. Bees are round and fuzzy, build honeycomb wax nests, and are gentle herbivores. Wasps, on the other hand, have smooth bodies and a narrow waist, build nests from paper, and are omnivores and more aggressive.

If you find a wasp nest, it's recommended to use specialized products or hire a professional exterminator.