Finding a new bee swarm - Ask Extension
My bees swarmed and now I have an empty hive. Is there someway to acquire another swarm? I had heard there are folks that collect swarms but don'...
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Finding a new bee swarm #842496
Asked July 25, 2023, 11:21 AM EDT
My bees swarmed and now I have an empty hive. Is there someway to acquire another swarm? I had heard there are folks that collect swarms but don't know how to connect with them.
Jefferson County Colorado
Expert Response
There is a Northern Colorado Beekeepers Association, which might be able to help. https://nocobees.org/ (includes a swarm hotline).
Hi Cyndi,
To follow up on what Frank said, you can also join your local beekeeping club. Often, the beekeeping clubs have lists of people waiting for swarms. Here is a list of the Colorado beekeeping clubs: https://coloradobeekeepers.org/resources/bee-associations/
Since you are in Jefferson County, you might consider joining the
Jefferson County Beekeeper Association (JCBA) formerly Green Mountain Bee Group –https://www.jeffcobeekeepers.org/ – Contact: <personal data hidden>
We've had a weird weather year with all the rain so bees have swarmed later than normal. Typically swarm season ends around June. It might be possible to find a swarm, but the beekeeping club will be able to help further.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Thanks,
Lisa
Lisa Mason
Horticulture Specialist, Entomologist
Colorado State University Extension, Arapahoe County
To follow up on what Frank said, you can also join your local beekeeping club. Often, the beekeeping clubs have lists of people waiting for swarms. Here is a list of the Colorado beekeeping clubs: https://coloradobeekeepers.org/resources/bee-associations/
Since you are in Jefferson County, you might consider joining the
Jefferson County Beekeeper Association (JCBA) formerly Green Mountain Bee Group –https://www.jeffcobeekeepers.org/ – Contact: <personal data hidden>
We've had a weird weather year with all the rain so bees have swarmed later than normal. Typically swarm season ends around June. It might be possible to find a swarm, but the beekeeping club will be able to help further.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Thanks,
Lisa
Lisa Mason
Horticulture Specialist, Entomologist
Colorado State University Extension, Arapahoe County