Bee swarms are one of the wonders of the natural world, part of the reproductive cycle of the honey bee colony and an important part of putting food on our tables. To find out more see here.
Honey bees across the world are in decline so wherever the bee swarm is, it's important that it's carefully removed and re-housed to allow it to build itself back up to full strength and continue its vital role of helping to feed us.
So What Should You Do?
Contact a bee swarm collector, see here for contact numbers. Some local collectors will collect your honey bee swarm free of charge and do so to help maintain the sadly
If you live in Gravesham or it's surrounding area* (*Gravesend, Cobham, Higham, Luddesdown, Meopham, Shorne, Vigo, Culverstone Green, Northfleet, Chalk, Gadshill, Meopham Green, Sole Street, Thong, New Barn, Longfield, New Ash Green, Hartley, Dartford, Wrotham, North Kent, Istead Rise, Southfleet, Betsham, Hodsoll Street, Harvel) you can have your swarm collected free by:
Bruce Medhurst : Tel 07985651356
Bruce will remove accessible honey bee swarms free of charge. He does not normally remove established colonies. Bruce is a member of the BBKA and registered with Defra's National Bee Unit.
Alternatively try:
Kent Bee Keepers Association (KBKA): Web: http://www.kentbee.com/kbka/info/swarms/
The KBKA maintains a list of swarm collectors throughout Kent. Collectors may request refunding of their travel costs or a contribution to association funds.