Bees With a View
A Buzzing Start to Spring
This Spring has been exceptionally busy for the iX5 Pest Control team. We’ve received a flurry of bee-related enquiries, many of them in truly spectacular settings. From idyllic farmhouses nestled in the Northamptonshire countryside to modern apartments overlooking peaceful canals, our bee experts have been hard at work ensuring safe, ethical removals.
Bees in the Chimney – A Rural Challenge
One memorable job took us just outside Daventry, to a beautiful farmhouse with panoramic views. The bees had taken up residence in the chimney, and although the setting was serene, the challenge was anything but. Nonetheless, our experienced team safely surveyed and planned the relocation with minimal disruption to the building or the bees.
Canal-Side Concerns in Milton Keynes
Perhaps the most picturesque project so far this season involved a third-floor apartment in a canal-side development in Milton Keynes. The letting agent had discovered a colony of bees behind some external wooden cladding, right next to a window. They were understandably keen to resolve the issue before letting the apartment to new tenants.
A Careful and Considered Survey
We began with a comprehensive survey using our thermal imaging camera, which allowed us to locate the centre of the colony precisely, along with other specialist equipment. This not only ensured we could work up an accurate quote but also enabled us to plan a method of removal that avoided unnecessary damage to the property.
Ethical Bee Removal with a Minimal Footprint
The bees had settled behind wooden cladding and had made their way down behind a wooden stanchion, fortunately, we could reach the entire colony without disturbing the structure beyond the cladding. Once scaffolding was in place, our team carefully removed the wooden panels to expose the hive. We always take great care to limit our intrusion to only what is absolutely necessary — and to restore the property and carry out proofing once the bees have been relocated.
Relocating the Colony to a New Home
We removed sections of honeycomb, separating waste from the valuable brood comb, which contains eggs and developing bees. These were transferred into a temporary hive, known as a nuc, placed adjacent to the original hive site. Gradually, the bees began migrating to the nuc, drawn by the presence of their brood and the queen.
After cleaning the original cavity, we insulated the void to prevent future infestations and sealed the entryway to prevent access. We sited the nuc close to the bees’ former entrance, making it easier for returning bees to find their new home.
A Happy Ending for Bees and Humans Alike
At dusk, we returned to find the bees settled comfortably in their new hive. They were safely transported to our quarantine apiary, where they will stay for a minimum of six weeks. During this time, we monitor their health and help them reestablish. Once cleared of disease, they will either join our own bee colonies or be gifted to local beekeepers.
The letting agents were delighted with the outcome — and are now free to let this stunning apartment, confident that the bee issue has been resolved both ethically and professionally.
Need Help With Bees? Contact iX5 Pest Control Today
At iX5 Pest Control, we believe in protecting both properties and pollinators. If you’ve discovered a bee colony in your home, business, or property development, don’t panic — call the experts. We offer humane, effective, and minimally invasive solutions to manage bee removals and relocations.
Get in touch with us today call us on 01604 328545, email [email protected] and let us help you resolve your pest problem the responsible way.
