Bees play an essential role in our environment, but when they nest too close to homes or businesses, they can become a concern. At ASW Pest Control, we prioritise the safe and responsible management of bees across Wiltshire and the surrounding areas. Our experienced team offers expert guidance and practical solutions to help protect your property while respecting and supporting these vital pollinators.
As registered beekeepers ourselves, we understand just how vital bees are to our environment and food chain. Protecting pollinators is always our priority, which is why we take a responsible approach when dealing with bee-related callouts. Where swarms are accessible, we can safely remove and relocate them with the aim of preserving the colony. By working closely with local beekeeping practices, we ensure that bees are protected rather than harmed, offering peace of mind for property owners while safeguarding these essential insects for the future.
You can either call us on 01249 447377 or fill out our simple contact form.
One of our pest control experts will call you or reply via email to arrange the appointment instantly.
ASW'S technician will carry out the required visits and we will be at the end of the phone if you need us.
(Apis Mellifera and Bombus Spp.)
Whilst capable of delivering a sting (female workers and the queen) bees are not aggressive insects and usually will not sting unless threatened. Whilst a queen can use her sting numerous times, the female workers have barbed stings meaning if they are brushed away or knocked off after stinging the bee will die though the poison sacs attached to the sting will continue to pump venom into the host for some time unless carefully removed.
Smaller and “fatter” than wasps
Honey bees are dark brown/pale orange in colour
Bumble bees considerably larger than honey bees, frequently the tip of the abdomen coloured brightly in ochre yellow or rich tawny colour
Noticeably hairy
Most honey bee colonies are “owned” by a local beekeeper
Bumblebees like to nest in holes in trees or possibly by excavating in soft or sandy earth
Swarms of bees may be seen as a cloud in the air or huddled in a ball on trees and bushes as workers leave a nest with a new queen to set up a new colony
Bumblebee males and females are produced towards the end of summer
Only female bumblebees will survive the winter through hibernation, males will die off
Worker honey bees live for 6 to 7 weeks in mid season though can be longer if they overwinter
Queen honey bees can live for 7 or 8 years, laying on average 900 eggs a day per year
If you discover a swarm of bees, the most important thing is to keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Swarms are usually temporary and far less aggressive than people expect. Contact a professional bee control specialist as soon as possible, as many swarms can be safely removed and relocated without harm to the colony.
Yes, in many cases bees can be safely removed and relocated. As experienced beekeepers, we always prioritise preservation over destruction. Where access allows, we work with local beekeeping networks to carefully relocate swarms, helping protect both your property and these essential pollinators.
Bees are generally not aggressive and will usually only sting if they feel threatened. However, they can pose a risk in high-traffic areas, particularly for those with allergies or in commercial environments. If bees are nesting close to entrances, workplaces, or public areas, it’s best to seek professional advice to manage the situation safely.
Bees and wasps are often confused, but there are clear differences. Bees are typically rounder, hairier, and more muted in colour, while wasps are slimmer, brighter yellow, and more aggressive. Correct identification is important, as bees are protected and handled very differently to wasps.
If a swarm is properly removed and the area is assessed, the likelihood of bees returning is low. However, if there are attractive nesting spots or leftover pheromone traces, new swarms may occasionally investigate the same area. Preventative advice and minor proofing can help reduce the chances of future activity.
