If you live in Moore County, NC and are concerned about a swarm of Honey Bees, this page is for you!

Q. What should I do?
A. In Moore County, the best first step is to contact us, your local Cooperative Extension Office! We will help coordinate with a reputable beekeeper who may be able to safely collect the swarm. Beekeepers can often relocate the bees and give them a new home. In many cases, a beekeeper will be happy to come out at no cost, as swarms are a valuable source of bees.
To reach the Moore County Center, call: (910) 947-3188

Q. What is a Swarm of Honey Bees?
A. A swarm is a mass of bees flying from, or congregating in one spot away from their hive. The swarm consists of the queen and a large portion of the colony leaving together. The swarm will generally gather at an initial, temporary location such as a tree limb, bush, or fence post, but swarms may gather on many other objects or even the ground. Scout bees search for a new home, then the swarm will move once again to establish a new hive.

Q. Why do bees swarm?
A. Swarming is how honey bee colonies reproduce and form new colonies. When a hive becomes crowded, about half of the worker bees leave with the queen and temporarily cluster on a nearby tree or structure while scout bees search for a new home. Other reasons may include their current home becoming damaged, infested, conditions around the home make it untenable, or for many other reasons.

Q. How long do bees swarm?
A. The duration of their stay depends on multiple factors, such as sunlight, weather, and available food resources. This can last anywhere from a few hours to, rarely, a few days.

Q. Are bees dangerous when they swarm?
A. A swarm is primarily focused on finding a new location to build their hive. However, they do have the means to defend themselves if they feel threatened. It is advised not to interact with a swarm.

Q. I am interested in learning about bees, where can I learn more?
A. If you live in the Moore County area, consider reaching out to the Moore County Beekeepers Association at moorecountybeekeepers@gmail.com. The MCBA holds monthly meetings covering topics related to beekeeping. They also have information on beginner Beekeeping courses.