Bee Swarms
Bees play a vital part in the pollinating of our veggie patches as well as our native plants and gardens. Around 80% of the food we eat relies on pollination for growing and farming. When the weather warms up, there can be more bees than usual buzzing about. If bees swarm into the wrong areas, we can relocate them to keep our community areas safe.
Bee Swarm Relocation
During the warmer weather, bees may form a colony outside of the hive. This is called swarming. It means that the bees are trying to get cool or establish a colony. For some people, the size of a swarm can be concerning. Generally during this state, the bee colony is not aggressive as they are trying to protect the queen.
On Private Property
Council does not provide a service to relocate bees from private property. Since it is a specialised task, we do not recommend attempting to remove a bee colony yourself. If you need help, there are many organisations specialising in bee relocation. They are pleased to help you and find the bees a more suitable place to make their home. The Beekeepers Society of SA has a list of contacts who remove and relocate bees for a fee.
For more information, visit Biosecurity SA.
On Council Property
Council will relocate bees from council land if they are causing a risk to public health and safety.
To report a bee swarm, call us on 86662014. You can report swarms if they are causing a nuisance, public health or safety risk.
Remember, bees are important for our environment and food production. Where possible, swarm relocation (not destruction) is the best choice for all of us.