There’s nothing like opening a hive teeming with bees, brood, and honey. But that excitement can quickly turn into a headache when your colony decides to swarm. Swarming means half – or more – of your workforce takes off, and with them goes your honey crop.
In Australia, swarm season usually kicks off around August/September and can stretch through summer. Staying ahead can save both bees and your honey harvest.
Why Colonies Swarm
Swarming is nature’s way of reproducing. In spring, when nectar is flowing and the queen is laying at full capacity, the hive can become overcrowded. The bees start raising new queens, and once the first one is ready, the old queen takes off with thousands of bees to start a new colony.
It’s nature’s expansion plan – but not so great for beekeepers left with a weakened hive.
Signs Your Hive May Be Preparing to Swarm
More drones: A surge in drone production can signal swarming on the horizon.
Behavior changes: Bees getting more agitated or active at the entrance? That’s a red flag.
Smart Ways to Reduce Swarming
You can’t stop bees from swarming, but you can reduce the risk. Here’s how:
- Give them space: Add extra drawn-out frames in the brood box so the queen has room to lay.
- Add supers early: Put on a honey super before the hive gets crowded, or replace capped honey with fresh frames for drawing.
- Keep colonies comfortable: Heat-stressed bees swarm faster. Provide shade and water to keep them calm.
- Check for queen cells: Removing swarm cells can buy time and reduce pressure.
- Use young queens: Older queens are more likely to swarm. Requeening every second autumn helps colonies stay strong and productive.
When a Swarm Lands Nearby
A buzzing cluster on a tree or fence might look scary, but swarming bees are usually calm – their bellies are full of honey, and they’re focused on finding a new home.
If you’re collecting swarms, remember they may carry varroa mites depending on your location. Perform an alcohol wash or sugar shake test as soon as the swarm settles and manage accordingly.
Swarming is natural – but it doesn’t have to cost you honey. Stay ahead of the season, keep colonies comfortable, and manage your queens. That way, you’ll spend more time harvesting and less time chasing bees across the paddock.