Do you think you found A SWARM? 

Swarming is a natural part of the honeybee reproductive process. Swarming happens when a large group of honeybees leave an established colony  to move to a new location to create a new colony.  Swarming usually happens in late March to July in Southern Oregon, however swarms in August and September are possible.  Honeybees that are swarming can be intimidating due to the loud buzzing or humming sounds and the sight of hundreds of bees flying around. The bees aren't looking to harm anyone, they are looking for a new home. 

Please allow the bees to find a resting place, called a bivouac or a cluster. Clusters may stay in one location for an hour or several days. The scout bees from the cluster are searching for a new location. You can help the bees by contacting one of our volunteer beekeepers who will come and collect them.

1)  Please be sure you are reporting a honeybee swarm. We are frequently contacted about bumble bees, yellow jackets, and paper wasps nests. This graphic is meant to help distinguish honeybees from other flying insects. 

 2) Please be sure the honeybees are in a cluster. The cluster can be on a branch, fence, on a vehicle, etc. If they are inside a structure or inside a tree, we have members who can remove an established colony of honeybees for a fee. 

3) Be prepared to answer questions and send photos to the beekeeper so they know what to expect.

4) Once you have contacted a beekeeper, please do not contact multiple beekeepers, as this creates confusion for everyone involved.