How to get rid of a bees' nest

Find out how to get rid of a bees’ nest without harming these all-important creatures.

Updated 23 September 2023

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AuthorBy Cleanipedia Team

Reading Time5 minutes

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Bees crawling together over some planks of wood in a bees' nest in the home

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Key steps

  • Call a professional. A beekeeper will be able to relocate the hive.

  • Use moth balls hung near the nest to deter bees.

  • Natural spices like cinnamon are ideal for making bees leave and go elsewhere.

  • Use eucalyptus, citronella or mint oils to deter bees from your home.

Bees are vital to the ecosystem, but they don’t make ideal housemates (unless you’re a beekeeper!). If bees have set up home in your house, we'll show you how to get rid of a bees’ nest in your garden or home, without harming yourself or the all-important bees. Once you have evicted the bees from your home, check out our article on creating a bee friendly garden to help the ecosystem without bees setting up home with you.

Once you have successfully removed bees from your home, make sure you seal up entry points such as chimneys, cracks or holes in brickwork, faulty rood tiling and more.

Beehive

How to get rid of a bees’ nest in the roof: steps to remove a bees’ nest from your home

If you discover you have a bees’ nest in your home, there are some easy, humane ways to move them on without killing them. Read on for easy steps for how to get rid of bees’ nest in wall cavities, rooves and more.

  1. 1

    Call a professional. When it comes to understanding how to get rid of a bees’ nest; the best and most humane way to move them on is to call a beekeeper. They will be able to relocate the hive away from your home and give you advice on how to prevent them returning.

  2. 2

    Try using moth balls. Whilst you may think these are only designed to deter moths, they are also a great way to get rid of bees. The smell they give off prevents the bees from wanting to return. All you need to do is hang them near the nest and give them time to relocate.

  3. 3

    Use natural spices. If you’re after a natural way to deter bees, cinnamon is a great choice. Sprinkle it around the bees’ nest every day, and they will want to make a new home somewhere else.

  4. 4

    Spray essential oils. Whilst bees are attracted to the sweet smells produced by perfumes and other products we use, they do not like certain scents. Spray essential oils such as eucalyptus, citronella or mint to create a natural bee deterrent in your home.

Image of a bees nest

How to stop bees nesting in a wall?

Preventing bees from nesting in a wall requires careful intervention. First, identify the entry point and ensure it is sealed off properly to prevent further access. It's important to wait until evening when bees are less active and then use a bee-safe insecticide to treat the entry area. Once the bees have vacated, remove the nest if accessible, ensuring proper protection. To discourage future nesting, paint or varnish the exterior of the wall, as bees are less likely to nest on smooth surfaces. Regularly inspect the area for any signs of bee activity and address it promptly to discourage nesting. If the infestation persists or is extensive, it's best to consult with a professional beekeeper or pest control expert.

How to Identify Ground Nesting Bees in Your Garden

Many bees nest on the ground, and while these bees may sometimes be mistaken for wasps, they are an important part of the ecosystem. Knowing the kind of bees in your garden is important because bees will only pollinate certain plants, and it is vital to know which plants are compatible for the bees in your area.

Ground Nesting Bee Identification

Ground nesting bees can be easy to identify through their body shape and color. They are usually small and round with a black or metallic blue appearance. The most common ground nesting bees include the Andrenidae and Halictidae bees. These bees are solitary and do not have a hive or queen. Generally, they are not aggressive, and they cannot sting unless provoked.

Their Nesting Habitats

Ground nesting bees make their homes in the soil, and they are usually found in groups. They prefer dry soil and sandy areas as a nesting habitat, but they can also burrow under garden beds. As the weather becomes warm, these bees come out and start their pollination duties. During the nights, the bees sleep underground. The damage to their nesting area is usually minor and can be easily solved.

The Role of Pollination

Pollination plays an essential part of plant growth in the garden. Ground nesting bees help pollinate plants, which improves their health and crop yields. By knowing the kind of bees present in your garden, you can ensure their mutual relationship with pollination remains unaltered. Pollination also allows plant cross-pollination, which helps strengthen their resistance to pests and diseases.

Don't Use Chemicals

These bees are essential to preserving the health and growth of your garden. It is crucial to refrain from using insecticides or pesticides in the garden as they can interfere with their pollination. Instead, focus on creating an environment that is favorable to these bees.

Safety

While these bees are not aggressive and pose little danger to humans, it is essential to take precautions. If people or pets are present, it is safer to restrict ground nesting bees from children's play areas. Too much disturbance can trigger their aggression, which can pose a danger to humans.

Now you have some top tips for how to get rid of bumble bees’ nest, you can do so safely without having to kill these important creatures. If you need more pest removal advice, check out our articles on how to remove silverfish, how to get rid of fruit flies or even how to get rid of woodlice.

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