In late September, BeeBuzzGardens was called to inspect a bee swarm that had settled inside a wall of a home in upstate New York. While the swarm wasn’t particularly large, the bees had already started building some comb. With winter quickly approaching, the situation required careful consideration. Instead of rushing to remove the bees, BeeBuzzGardens suggested a more patient approach, allowing the bees to remain undisturbed until spring. This advice is based on the belief that the bees would have a better chance of survival if left alone through the winter.
One of the key reasons for this recommendation is the availability of food. By late fall, nectar sources have dwindled significantly, making it difficult for a newly relocated colony to build up the necessary stores to survive the cold months. Even though some bees may have begun foraging on goldenrod—one of the last major nectar flows in upstate New York—there simply isn’t enough time for them to gather sufficient resources. Removing them now could doom the colony, especially if they were unable to establish themselves in a new location.
BeeBuzzGardens also highlighted the importance of giving bees the best chance at survival, especially during this critical time of year. The decision to leave the bees undisturbed until spring was not only practical but also driven by an appreciation for people who choose to save bees rather than exterminate them. Honeybees are vital pollinators, and every effort to preserve them helps support local ecosystems and agriculture.
In the spring, BeeBuzzGardens plans to return to the site and assess whether the bees survived the winter. If the colony remains healthy, they will safely remove the hive and relocate it to a more suitable environment. This patient approach not only ensures the bees’ survival but also minimizes disruption to their natural behaviors during a critical time.
BeeBuzzGardens took time to observe the bees closely, noting that they were darker in color, which can sometimes indicate that they are a hardier, more resilient breed. The local environment also plays a role in the bees’ survival, with the fall flow of goldenrod offering some last-minute resources before winter fully sets in.
Documenting this situation allows BeeBuzzGardens to share their knowledge with the community, encouraging others to take similar actions when they encounter bee swarms late in the season. By promoting patience and understanding, BeeBuzzGardens is helping ensure that more bees survive the winter and continue to thrive in the coming spring.