How You Can Help Honey Bees This Swarm Season
Spring and early summer in Suffolk and Norfolk bring more than just longer days and blooming gardens – they also mark the start of swarm season for honey bees. While it might feel a bit alarming to see a big ball of buzzing bees hanging from a tree or fence post, it’s actually one of the most fascinating and vital parts of a honey bee’s lifecycle.
I’m often contacted by people asking, “What should I do if I find a swarm of bees?” So, here’s a simple guide to help you support our local honey bees – and stay safe in the process.
🐝 What Is a Bee Swarm?
A swarm is how a honey bee colony naturally reproduces. When the old hive gets too crowded, the queen bee and thousands of workers leave to find a new home. While the scouts search for a suitable spot (like a hollow tree or quiet roof space), the rest of the bees gather together in a large, hanging cluster – often on a branch, hedge, or even a garden bench. This is their temporary ‘pit-stop’.
It might look dramatic, but a swarm is usually calm and not aggressive as the bees, full on honey, are focused on staying together and protecting their queen.
What You Can Do If You Spot a Swarm
If you live in Suffolk or Norfolk and come across a swarm, here’s how to help:
Stay calm and keep your distance – bees in a swarm are not looking to sting, but it’s still best not to disturb them.
Don’t try to move or spray them – they aren’t pests and usually move on within a day or two if left alone.
Take a photo if you can (from a safe distance) – this helps us confirm it’s a honey bee swarm.
Contact a local swarm collector – in many cases, they can come and safely rehome the bees.
We have links and guidance on our Swarm Collection page, where you’ll find more info and a way to report a swarm.
🐝 Not All Bees Are Swarms
Sometimes people contact us about bees flying in and out of a small hole in a roof, wall, or chimney. This usually means an established colony, not a swarm – and it requires specialist help.
Likewise, bumblebees and solitary bees (like mason bees) don’t swarm. They’re vital pollinators too, and usually best left undisturbed.
If you’re not sure what you’re seeing, feel free to get in touch – we’re happy to help identify the bees and advise on the next steps.
Extra Ways to Help Honey Bees This Season
Even if you never come across a swarm, you can still support our bees:
Plant for pollinators – native wildflowers, herbs, and flowering shrubs make a real difference.
Avoid pesticides – especially on blooming plants or lawns.
Leave a little wild – patches of longer grass and untidy corners are brilliant for wildlife.
Support local beekeepers and conservation efforts – whether it’s buying local honey or attending a bee-friendly workshop!
Need Swarm Help in Suffolk or Norfolk?
If you think you’ve spotted a honey bee swarm and live in the Suffolk or Norfolk area, visit our Swarm Collection page for guidance, or feel free to send us a message with a photo. Together, we can help keep our local bees safe and buzzing.
