How to Catch a Swarm of Bees

Several times during my life, I have had a few opportunities to capture a swarm of bees even before I had any idea of how to go about it. Now that I know more about how to confine a swarm, please allow me to explain a method to use.

First and foremost, if you are allergic to bee venom, stay away from them. If you do not have protective clothing, stay away from them. I have the clothing to prevent bee stings, but do not always wear it. Bees are not as prone to sting during swarming as when they have a home to protect. Also, they have gorged themselves with honey before leaving the hive making it somewhat difficult for them to sting.

If one has no means of capturing and holding the swarm, I’ll explain how to retain

them until you can find the proper hive. Click photos to enlarge.

Using a cardboard box larger than the swarm, but not too large. Seal the bottom with tape to prevent their escape, and then remove the top lid flaps with a knife. Now you’ll need a piece of screen wire, a couple of inches larger than the top all around. About an inch down from the top, and in the middle of each side punch a hole. The holes should be large enough to push a small stick or something like a dowel all the way through one hole across to the other hole. Do this on both sides of the box, forming a cross in the middle .The sticks provide a place for the bees to cling.

If you are lucky enough that the bees are hanging from a tree limb, hold the box under the cluster of bees. Now give the limb a quick shake, dislodging the bees to fall into the box. Keep working until you capture all the bees you possible can.

Quickly, place the screen wire over the top of the box folding the wire down on all sides. Now tape the edges of the screen in place. For ventilation punch holes all around the box.

Bees should not be left in this box but a couple of days. The main thing is to store them in a cool place. To feed them, dissolve equal parts sugar and water. Use a clean paint brush, apply the sugar-water to the screen.

Now find the proper home for your bees and move them into it.

Help save the bees and mankind.

A Bee Stinger enlarged 450 times. The stinger parts slide back and forth injecting venom as it works deeper into the flesh. Note the barbs on each side of the stinger.

How to treat a sting:
1. Scrape the stinger out as quickly as possible—do not pull or squeeze the stinger out as that may release more venom beneath the skin.
2. Clean with soap and water to prevent infection.

3. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the sting site.