A swarm of bees can seem like a serious buzzkill in spring, but one local beekeeper says Baltimore residents should not panic when they see hundreds of pollinators cluster together outside of a hive.
Here’s a few things to know about why bees congregate on the sides of trees and buildings and ways to keep yourself and family safe:
Why do bees swarm?
Bees are biologically meant to swarm in large groups on surfaces outside of a hive about once a year, usually in the springtime, said Charles DeBarber, a self-taught beekeeper who works with the Filbert Street Garden.
Hives typically swarm in this manner because their home has become too crowded. The hive becomes cramped after the queen lays eggs and after the worker bees bulk up on the hive’s supply of nectar after winter ends — kind of like the bees are canning food for later, DeBarber said.
Between the extra nectar and next generation of pollinators, the queen leaves to find new space, usually bringing about 60 percent of the hive with her. The swarm then gathers outside of the hive while “scout” bees search for a new home.
During this period, people may spot the swarms in exposed locations like on the sides of trees or buildings. However, honey bees are usually docile as a swarm, and typically move on within 24 to 72 hours, DeBarber said.
What should I do if I see a bee swarm?
However tempting it may seem to empty a can of Raid on a swarm, DeBarber says people should resist harming pollinators.
“They’re so darn important,” he said.
While many crops of grain are self-pollinating, most fruits, vegetables and nuts are dependent on pollination from insects such as bees, according to a study from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. However, bee populations have plummeted in recent years for a variety of reasons, including the use of pesticides that contain potent bee neurotoxins.