So what do you do if there's a bee swarm or bee colony in your house? The first thing is to make sure that you're actually dealing with honey bees and not wasps. If you're not sure of the differrence then have a look at the pictures and video on this page. It's essential that whereever possible, honey bee swarms and bee colonies are removed rather than destroyed, see here to find out why. The best way to do this is to call out a bee swarm collector who will often collect the bee swarm free of charge.
If you are in the Gravesham area or close by your options are: (* 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)
Gravesham Borough Council (GBC) - Environmental Control :
Tel 01474 56 44 22
GBC maintains a list of beekeepers willing to collect bee swarms in Gravesham. Alternatively use the on-line facility below.
If you live outside the Gravesham area :
Use Your Postcode To Find A Swarm Collector: This online map based facility allows you to enter your postcode and then shows which swarm collectors are close to you along with their contact details. http://www.bees.co.uk/swarmmap
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 require refunding of their travel costs or a contribution to association funds.