The Angry Bees Take a Field Trip

In the world of beekeeping, swarms are like nature's whimsical surprises—moments when bees decide to embark on unexpected journeys. While swarming is a rare occurrence in my buzzing realm, there was one notable instance that remains etched in my memory: the day my Angry Bees took an unexpected field trip.

It was a scorching summer day, and I found myself trapped indoors, entangled in a seemingly endless and mundane phone call. As I gazed out the window, seeking solace in the outside world, my eyes widened in disbelief. One of my hives, notoriously known for their perpetual bad mood and aptly dubbed the "Angry Bees," had burst forth from their cozy wooden colony boxes, taking flight as a magnificent swarm.

My heart raced as I watched approximately 80,000 bees—the collective strength of a thriving summer colony—flock to a young Aspen tree nearby. The sight was almost comical, as the tiny sapling struggled to support the weight of this airborne army of bees. Eager to intervene, I hastily concluded my tedious call, slipping into my protective gear, all while keeping a keen eye on the spectacle unfolding before me.

As I stepped outside, ready to address this unexpected field trip, something remarkable occurred. It was as if the bees sensed my presence, instantly recognizing that they had been caught in the act. In a synchronized motion, the entire swarm swiftly abandoned their leafy perch and returned to their original hive boxes, as if a "bee field trip" was nothing more than an ordinary part of their routine.

Relieved, I carefully inspected the hive and its queen, finding no signs of distress or disruption. There were no mites or other indicators of trouble, leaving me mystified as to what had prompted this sudden adventure. To this day, the mystery of their fleeting field trip remains unsolved, serving as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of bee behavior.

So, what exactly is a swarm? Swarming generally occurs when a thriving honeybee colony reaches its maximum population and decides to split into two or more groups. This division includes the queen bee, a portion of worker bees, and a supply of honey. It is a natural instinct, driven by the bees' desire to reproduce and establish new colonies.

Why do swarms happen? Swarming allows honeybees to seek new homes and expand their presence in the environment. It is their way of multiplying and ensuring the survival of the species. While the exact triggers can vary, factors such as hive congestion, favorable weather conditions, and the availability of resources can influence the swarming process.

If you encounter a swarm, what should you do? First and foremost, it's important to remain calm and not disturb the bees. Swarming bees are generally not aggressive or interested in stinging, as their focus is on finding a new home. In Colorado, you can contact the Colorado State Beekeepers Swarm Hotline, who can safely and expertly remove the swarm. They will provide the bees with a suitable hive and ensure their well-being.

As beekeepers, we embrace the marvels of swarms, recognizing them as nature's captivating dance of renewal. These airborne adventures offer glimpses into the intricate and mysterious world of bees. While my Angry Bees' field trip remains a delightful enigma, the reasons behind swarming are rooted in the bees' innate wisdom, ensuring the continuation of their remarkable journey and the vital role they play in our ecosystem.