Catching a Honeybee Swarm: An Adventure in the Backyard!

A swarm I captured this spring

Spring has sprung, and you know what that means—it's swarm season! As a beekeeper for over 15 years, there's nothing quite like the buzz of excitement (pun intended) that comes with catching a honeybee swarm. It's a mix of adventure, a dash of adrenaline, and a whole lot of bee love.

Picture this: you're in your backyard, enjoying a sunny afternoon, when you hear it—a low, steady hum growing louder. You look up, and there it is—a swirling cloud of bees, all on the move, looking for a new home. Now, don't panic! These bees are as gentle as they come. They're simply house hunting and could use a little real estate advice.

Here's how it usually goes down at my place:

1. Gear Up: I grab my trusty bee suit (better safe than sorry!), a smoker, and my swarm box. Think of it as bee wrangling attire—minus the cowboy hat, although that could be fun.

2. Locate the Swarm: Bees typically cluster on tree branches, fences, or even porch railings. Once I spot them, I get close enough to admire their impressive teamwork but far enough to avoid getting too much bee attention.

3. Shake, Rattle, and Roll: With a gentle shake of the branch or a soft brush with my bee brush, the swarm usually falls right into my swarm box. It’s a bit like trying to catch a snowflake on your tongue—delicate and precise.

4. Relocation Time: Once the bees are safely in the box, I transport them to their new hive. I like to think of myself as the ultimate bee real estate agent, ensuring they get a cozy, welcoming new home.

5. The Grand Unveiling: Finally, I open the box next to the hive and watch as the bees eagerly explore their new digs. It’s always heartwarming to see them settle in, ready to start their new colony.

Catching a honeybee swarm is one of the most rewarding parts of beekeeping. It's a reminder of the incredible natural processes at work and the important role we play in supporting these vital pollinators. Plus, it's a great story to share with friends and family—who doesn't love a good bee adventure?

So, next time you hear that familiar buzz in the spring, don't be afraid. Embrace the adventure and maybe even try your hand at catching a swarm. Just remember to suit up, stay calm, and enjoy the sweet reward of helping our little buzzing friends find a new home.

Happy beekeeping, everyone!

Here are photos of some swarms I have caught: