Between April and September, honeybee colonies may swarm.
This is a natural part of the bees’ life cycle and is how colonies reproduce and establish new homes.

A swarm may look alarming, but it is usually temporary and calm. The bees will often settle in one place for a short time while scout bees search for a suitable new site.

Is This a Swarm?

Use the checklist below to help identify whether what you’re seeing is likely to be a swarm:

• ☐ The bees are grouped tightly together in a cluster

• ☐ They are resting on a branch, fence, wall, post, or similar surface

• ☐ There is no visible nest or comb being built

• ☐ The bees appear calm, not flying aggressively

• ☐ The cluster appeared suddenly, often within a few hours

If most of these apply, it is very likely a honeybee swarm.

Bees flying in and out of a hole in a wall, roof, or tree over several days are not a swarm — this usually indicates an established colony.

What to Do

• Keep a safe distance

• Do not spray, block, or disturb the bees

• If possible, take a clear photo

Then send me a message or get in touch, and I’ll advise on the next steps.

Areas Covered

Swarm collection is offered in and around:

• Crawley

• Ifield

• Langley Green

• Three Bridges

• Rowfant

• Haywards Heath

• Surrounding parts of West Sussex

If you’re unsure whether your location is covered, feel free to ask.

Response Times

During the swarming season (April–September):

• Initial response: usually within a few hours

• Collection: often same day, depending on location, access, and weather

Swarm collection is always subject to safety, accessibility, and whether the swarm can be reached without risk.