Introduction
Bumble Bees or Bombus spp. play an essential role in pollinating crops and flowers. They are usually gentle insects that will not sting unless threatened. However, having their colonies in residential areas can cause concerns. These furry bees can sting multiple times, and their sting can be painful for some individuals, especially for those who are allergic to bee venom. In this article, we will provide effective ways for homeowners to get rid of bumble bees without harming them and their environment.
Identify the Bumble Bee Habitat
The first step in getting rid of bumble bees is to identify their habitat. Bumble bee colonies are usually built underground in abandoned rodent burrows, thick grass, or leaf piles. They build their colonies in early spring and start pollinating in search of nectar and pollen to feed their young. It is crucial to locate their colony before taking any action.
One way to identify their colony is to observe their flight patterns. Bumble bees tend to fly in and out of their colonies in a short distance. Follow their movements to locate the entrance to their nest.
It is also essential to differentiate between bumble bees and other bees that resemble them. Not all bees are harmful or aggressive towards humans, so proper identification is crucial before removal.
Use Insecticides
Insecticides can be an effective way to remove bumble bees from residential or commercial areas. However, it can also cause harm to other insects and creatures that are essential to the environment. Using insecticides should be done with extreme caution.
When using insecticides, read the product label carefully and follow the instructions. Wear protective clothing such as gloves, long sleeves, and pants. Use chemicals that are specifically designed for bumble bees, as some insecticides may not be effective.
Effective insecticides include Tempo SC Ultra Pest Control Concentrate, Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide, and Talstar Pro Termiticide Insecticide. These insecticides can be purchased in hardware stores or online.
Try Traps
Bumble bee traps can also be an effective way of removing these causes for concern while also doing so without harming the environment. Some traps incorporate natural attractants like sweet, sugary fruit juice and honey to lure the bees inside, while others use pheromones that simulate the scent of the queen bee, making them believe it’s a safe place.
If you prefer to make a homemade trap, cut 2-liter soda bottles in half, and fill the bottom part with sweet fruit juice or soda. Inverted the top portion and attached it to the bottom portion with duct tape or staples. Bury the bottle trap near the bumble bee colony entrance, and the bees will be lured inside and drown.
Proper placement of the trap is essential. Place the traps near the entrance of the bumble bee colony, where they would be more attracted to the bait. Check the trap regularly and dispose of the dead bees properly.
Change Floral Colors
Bumble bees are attracted to bright floral colors, especially blue, purple, and yellow. If you have a garden and are trying to discourage these buzzing critters from making themselves at home, then you can plant flowers with less attractive colors like red and white flowers with not so much contrast.
Removing weeds is also helpful because they can enable tall grass, which can become a bumble bee haven. An alternative is to opt for low grasses and less leafy perennials, especially flowering plants like basil and bush beans. These plants flower inconspicuously and have a sweet-smelling scent that can attract bumblebees from their colonies without confusion.
Use Sticky Traps
Sticky traps are another method for trapping bumble bees. They work by using an adhesive surface that traps the bees as they land on it. These traps are best placed around the exterior of a house or the garden and are quite effective in preventing bumble bees from getting inside the house.
Sticky traps work by attracting bumble bees to the trap, and once they land on the adhesive surface, they become stuck and die. However, sticky traps are not specific, and they can also trap helpful insects like predators that prey on bumblebees.
To use sticky traps, hang the trap near the entrance to the bumble bee colony and check it regularly. Dispose of the dead insects and replace the trap when it is full.
Professional Help
If all else fails, or the bumble bee colony is too large to manage by yourself, it is best to seek professional help. Exterminators or pest control services have the knowledge and experience to remove bumble bees safely and effectively.
When choosing an exterminator or pest control service, select an accredited and licensed company. A reputable company should also be able to give a comprehensive guide to the chemicals and equipment that they will use for your property and indicate any risks or hazards.
Conclusion
Getting rid of bumble bees can be an easy task if done right. It is important to identify their colonies, use proper tools and insecticides, and take extra precautions while handling them to avoid danger from bee stings. However, as important as it is to remove the bumble bee colony, it is also important to do so without harming them and the environment. By using these simple tips, you can safely remove bumble bees from your property and maintain your safety.
