Swarms

WBKA provides a swarm collection service to the people of Wharfedale on a voluntary basis.
We do not charge for this service, but will accept donations to the Association if offered. If you live outside Wharfedale, your local association may be able to help you.

We are often called out to remove insects which are not bees.

Please check the information and video on the BBKA website, which will help you to confirm whether you have a swarm.

We do not remove or relocate bumblebees, wasps or hornets. If honey bees are inside buildings and are causing a problem, then you may need to employ a pest control service to destroy the bees, remove the nest and block access to the cavity to prevent bees from re-establishing a nest.

If, after checking, you believe you have a swarm, immediately contact your local Association Swarm Collector (below), who should be able to remove the swarm and find it a new home.

Bees in your Bird Box?: This is quite common in the spring and summer. It’s probably bumblebees, not honey bees. For more information, see the BBCT website.

PLEASE NOTE: Swarms are usually very placid; however, unless you are an experienced beekeeper, you should keep your distance and under no circumstances disturb the bees.

Association Swarm Collectors 2025

Below is the list of this year's swarm collectors who may be able to help you if you have a honeybee swarm. We will try to respond quickly when contacted, but we cannot guarantee to be able to remove a swarm, particularly if access is difficult or dangerous.

For WBKA members, anyone wanting a swarm should give their details to Mark Cade, our swarm coordinator (07814 530628). Anyone with a swarm looking for a home should also contact him, and he will try to match offer with requirement.

For more swarm collectors, see the BBKA's map of UK swarm collectors.