Bees

Bees are flying insects that are closely related to ants and wasps. They are well known for their role in pollination and in the case of the European honey bee are known for producing honey and beeswax. There are almost 20,000 known species of bee, found on every continent but Antartica wherever flowering plants are found. Contrary to popular belief bees aren’t protected and can be treated.

Types of Bees Commonly Found

Honey bees – A honey nest will have thousands of bees and they will swarm around the entrance of the nest, this is often in chimneys but they will use any cavity. You may come into contact with a swarm when part of a hive splits and a Queen accompanied by drones and several thousand workers will look for a new nest site. While the scout bees are looking for a suitable site the swarm may hang for a few days in a tree or bush.

Bumble Bees- These are the largest of the bees found and usually nest in the ground or in compost heaps and similar areas. Recently they have been found using lofts. They are not aggressive although they can sting if they feel threatened or around the nest entrance.

Masonry and Mining Bees: These types of bees will be seen entering many holes either in the ground or in the mortar around the bricks of your home. There is no Queen with these type of bees, so all the females will lay eggs.

Treatment

Entrances to nests found must not be blocked or barred before treatment and pests and children should be kept away. Windows should also be kept closed.

The technician, upon arrival, will be able to tell you what sort of bees they are, usually either Bumble Bees, Honey Bees or a wild species such as masonry or mining bees. They are not as aggressive as wasps but will sting if they think their nest is threatened. Honey bees will not hesitate to sting in this situation and can be dangerous in large numbers in a nest or swarm.

The nest will be treated with one of the following insecticides: Effect Microtech CS’* which contains Lambdacyhalothrin, Ficam W which contains 80% Bendiocarb w/w, K-Othrine which contains Deltamethrin or a powder called Ficam D*. This contains an insecticide in a dust formulation @ 1% w/w Bendiocarb. All insecticides are biodegradable, almost odourless, non tainting & do not corrode or stain. The insecticides used are not highly toxic towards mammals but are extremely so to all forms of crawling and flying public health pests.

PESTUK can provide a same day service to treat bees that is guaranteed as well.

To book an appointment please call us on 0330 100 2811.

For more information on Bees please visit the BPCA.