DIY bee removal can be tempting for homeowners looking to address bee infestations without professional assistance. Various DIY methods for bee removal exist, ranging from bee-repellent sprays to physically relocating the colony. However, attempting bee removal without the proper knowledge and equipment can be dangerous and can lead to being stung. Multiple stings can cause serious harm even if you aren’t allergic to bees. Additionally, if you’re allergic to bee stings, there is a potential for life-threatening consequences.

In many cases, especially with large or established colonies, seeking professional assistance is the safest and most effective approach.

DIY vs. professional bee control

DIY bee removal and professional bee removal differ significantly in terms of efficiency, safety, and effectiveness. DIY methods typically involve addressing bee infestations using homemade traps, repellents, and other techniques. Homeowners usually lack the expertise and specialized equipment to remove bees safely.

Professional bee removal services are performed by experienced beekeepers or pest control technicians with the knowledge, skills, and proper equipment to handle bee infestations. They can accurately identify the bee species, assess the colony size and location, and implement tailored removal techniques. Professionals also understand the importance bees play as pollinators for our national food supply and can safely transfer bee colonies without resorting to hive extermination.

Follow safety best bee practices

Though DIY bee removal is not recommended, it's crucial to prioritize safety if you attempt it. Here are some things to keep in mind.

  • Wear protective clothing, including a beekeeper's suit or thick long sleeves, pants, gloves, a hat, and a veil for face and neck protection. Seal off arm and leg sleeves with rubber bands or duct tape. This will help prevent bees from getting under your clothing.
  • Move slowly to avoid agitating the bees. Sudden movements can trigger defensive behavior.
  • Have access to a fast-acting antihistamine (Benadryl), and be prepared to seek medical attention if necessary.

If the bee infestation is large or you are unsure how to remove the bees safely, it's best to call a professional. Especially if the hive is located in a wall, ceiling, or attic space. If the nest, hive, or honey is not completely removed, the bees may come back and/or other pest species may be attracted to these areas for food or shelter.

Bee spray

Store-bought bee sprays contain insecticides that kill bees on contact or deter nesting. These chemicals disrupt the bees' nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. Bee spray efficiency and effectiveness vary based on the ingredient concentration, application accuracy, and the size of the bee population. Bee sprays may not suffice for larger infestations.

Common sprays are typically not insect-specific and could kill other beneficial insects. These products should not be applied to food crops or flowering foliage.

Bee powder

DIY bee removal powders are applied by dusting or sprinkling them onto surfaces where bees are present. The powder can dehydrate the bees upon contact by absorbing their outer waxy layer. Or the powder contains toxic substances that disrupt a bee’s nervous system, leading to death. Their efficiency depends on the type of powder used and the accuracy of the application.

Smoking out bees

Smoking bees out is a technique that makes bee handling safer and more manageable during hive inspections or when relocating bee colonies. The smoke is used to calm the bees and interferes with their ability to communicate. It also reduces aggression, making them less likely to sting.

Vinegar to remove bees

Vinegar can be used as a temporary deterrent to help repel bees from specific areas. To try and remove bees, you can mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply the solution to surfaces where bees are active or nesting.

The strong odor of vinegar may help deter bees from returning to certain areas, encouraging them to relocate elsewhere. This is not really effective for larger, more established colonies.

Bottle and syrup traps

Homeowners commonly try to create DIY bee traps using recycled liter bottles or a similar container. By inverting the top piece, it creates a funnel. Then, bait like meat, sugary liquids, or dish soap is added inside. If the bees are lured by the bait, they become trapped and exhausted from trying to escape, killing them within a few days.

This type of DIY bee trap might attract more aggressive bees, which can be dangerous. Additionally, traps do not work well for large infestations. Traps would be better suited for bees inside a home that you are trying to trap out.

Bee-repellent plants

Plants believed to repel bees include mint, eucalyptus, and basil. Despite planting bee-repellent plants, bees may still frequent nearby flowers, as they are naturally drawn to flowering plants for pollen and nectar.

Bees play a crucial role in pollination and ecosystem health, so it's generally advisable to plant bee-friendly plants in gardens rather than trying to repel them. Plants known to attract bees include beebalms, sunflowers, and lavender.

Reducing bee nesting sites from your property

In late winter or early spring, homeowners should inspect their house's perimeter, including siding, eaves, etc., for small gaps or cracks that bees could enter through. Seal these holes with an elastomeric sealant or silicone-based caulking.

It is also beneficial to trim or remove overgrown or old shrubbery. Remove trees with signs of hollowing trunks or branches, and have any damaged areas cut out. Raised beds and planter boxes should have the soil turned to rid any air pockets.

DIY bee nest removal

DIY best nest removal can be extremely dangerous if you do not have the proper knowledge or tools, so this task should be left to professionals. Professional pest technicians and beekeepers have the knowledge, skills, and proper safety equipment to remove nests. Additionally, they focus on humanely removing bees and preventing future infestations by dealing with the root causes. Working with your local beekeeper or the bee experts at Terminix is the best way to remove a bee’s nest.