About Bumblebees (Genus Bombus)

Activity: Gentle Giants with Seasonal Peaks

Bumblebees are beneficial pollinators commonly seen buzzing around flowers in gardens, parks, and natural landscapes. Unlike aggressive wasps, bumblebees are generally docile and only sting when provoked. Their activity peaks in spring and summer, as they forage for nectar and pollen to feed their colony. However, if they nest too close to homes, decks, or sheds, they can pose a stinging hazard, especially to those allergic to bee venom.

Unlike honeybees, bumblebee colonies die off in late fall, with only fertilized queens overwintering to start new colonies the following spring.

Diet: What Bumblebees Eat & Why It Matters

Bumblebees feed exclusively on:

• Nectar (energy source)

• Pollen (protein source for developing larvae)

While they are vital pollinators, nests near homes can create conflicts with humans. Foraging bumblebees may enter homes through open windows or vents, especially when attracted to indoor plants or sugary scents.

Size: Large, Fuzzy, and Noticeable

Bumblebees are among the largest bee species, with worker bees measuring 10-20 mm and queens reaching up to 25 mm.

• They are easily recognized by their round, furry bodies and black and yellow bands.

• Their slow, loud buzzing flight makes them more noticeable than other bees.

Despite their size, they are less aggressive than wasps or hornets, stinging only in self-defense.

Nesting Habits: Where Bumblebees Live

Bumblebees typically nest in ground cavities, abandoned rodent burrows, compost piles, or under sheds and decks.
Occasionally, they may establish nests in:

• Wall voids

• Attics

• Hollow structures in outbuildings

Unlike honeybees, their colonies are small (50-400 individuals) but can become problematic if located near high-traffic areas.

Why Professional Treatment Is Crucial

While bumblebees are important pollinators and protected in some regions, removal becomes necessary when nests pose a safety risk to humans or pets.

Professional pest control ensures:

• Correct identification (bumblebees vs. wasps/hornets)

• Safe, humane removal or relocation where possible

• Use of environmentally responsible methods

• Minimizing harm to beneficial pollinators while protecting your property

Attempting DIY removal can result in multiple stings and unintended harm to these beneficial insects.

Signs of a Bumblebee Nest

Early Detection = Safe Coexistence

Watch for these signs near your home or yard:

• Increased Bumblebee Activity: Frequent bee traffic near ground holes, decks, or wall voids.

• Visible Nest Openings: Small entrance holes with bees coming and going.

• Buzzing Sounds in Structures: Loud, persistent buzzing in walls, attics, or sheds.

• Swarming Behavior: Defensive bees hovering near a particular area when disturbed.

Understanding the Problem: Bumblebee Nests Near Homes

Though essential to ecosystems, bumblebee nests near living spaces can:

• Endanger children, pets, or anyone allergic to bee stings

• Disrupt outdoor activities near decks, patios, and gardens

• Lead to defensive stinging incidents if nests are disturbed

Proper management focuses on relocation or exclusion, avoiding unnecessary extermination of pollinators.

Our Professional Approach to Bumblebee Control

We balance safety and environmental responsibility with expert pest control solutions:

 Comprehensive Inspection

• Confirm species identification (bumblebees, not wasps).

• Locate nest sites in and around the property.

 Humane Removal or Relocation

• Safely extract and relocate bumblebee nests where possible.

• Apply exclusion techniques to prevent re-nesting.

 Preventive Measures

• Advise on sealing entry points in structures.

• Offer solutions to deter future nesting in high-risk areas.