We have recently been working on the removal of a colony of bees from a chimney flue at a property in Norfolk.
Bees had gained access to the chimney breast through the boiler flue and built a nest. On further investigation it was found that bees were getting into the boiler and the flue contained so many bees the boiler stopped working and was emitting dangerous fumes, which can be potentially fatal.
Because of the important role bees play in the environment, exterminating them is always the last option. In this case the danger to the family in the house was severe due to the dangerous fumes being given off by the boiler. We weighed up the facts, and the fume danger combined with the sheer number of bees inhabiting the flue meant we were unable to safely remove the bees. After consulting with the Beekeepers Association, it was sadly agreed we would have to destroy them for health and safety reasons.
This entailed hiring a cherry picker to get access to the chimney. The nest was treated and left overnight.
Because bees can enter any structure or object that contains holes large enough for them, we had to come back the next morning to seal off the entrance, this is to stop the risk of robber bees gaining access to the treated nest, as they could take the insecticide back to their colony.
A boiler engineer was then called in to service and maintain the boiler.
Signs of bees
If you have a bee nest you will probably see bees entering a hole in the ground, in a wall or roof. The location of their nest often depends on the species of bee involved. It is usually either bumble bees, honey bees or a wild species such as masonry or mining bees.
Call in the professionals
Because of the important role bees play in pollinating food and horticultural crops, there is lots of legislation around when you can treat bees. However, when social bees build their nests near or in homes and other buildings, they need controlling. In these cases, it’s important to always call in professional help. Wherever possible we will try to relocate the bee colony to a local registered beekeeper.
If you have a problem with bees at your home or workplace, Abate Pest Management can help you.