How to Safely Capture a Bee Swarm: A Step-by-Step Guide
Capturing a bee swarm can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it requires proper preparation and technique to ensure safety for both the bees and the handler. Here is a step-by-step guide to safely capture a swarm:
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
Before approaching the swarm, make sure you have the following tools:
Beekeeping suit with veil
Gloves
Bee smoker (optional)
Swarm box or nuc box
Ladder (if the swarm is above ground)
Spray bottle with sugar water
Step 2: Assess the Situation
Observe the swarm from a safe distance. Confirm that they are honeybees and not wasps or hornets.
Determine the swarm's location. If it’s in a precarious spot (e.g., high up in a tree), consider seeking professional help.
Step 3: Approach Calmly
Wear your protective gear to avoid stings.
Move slowly and avoid sudden movements to keep the bees calm.
Step 4: Spray the Swarm Lightly
Using a spray bottle, lightly mist the swarm with sugar water. This helps calm the bees and makes them easier to handle.
Step 5: Transfer the Swarm
Position the swarm box or nuc box directly under the swarm
Gently shake the branch or object they’re clustered on so the bees fall into the box. Alternatively, use a soft brush to guide them in.
Close the box, leaving a small opening for stragglers to join.
Step 6: Relocate the Swarm
Secure the box and transport it to the desired location.
Introduce the swarm to a permanent hive and monitor their progress over the next few weeks.
Step 7: Keep the Bees in the Colony
To help prevent the swarm from absconding, add a frame of open brood from another colony to the new hive. The presence of the brood encourages the swarm to stay and establish their new home.
Beekeeping Jacket with Round Veil/Hat (Extra Large, Khaki)
Clothes N Leather Gear
VEVOR 3 Frame Honey Extractor, Stainless Steel
ABOUT US
Several years in… and sometimes we still ask ourselves, how did we get here?
It all started when Chris mentioned honeybees and his interest in them. Once he started reading and learning everything he could, it didn’t take long to see that this wasn’t just a passing interest—it was something he was truly passionate about. Honestly, he was a natural. Before we knew it, we bought the supplies and equipment we needed for our first beehives.
We also signed up for a few beekeeping classes, which turned out to be a great way to meet other local beekeepers and learn from their experiences. The reading, studying, and learning never really end. Chris puts his heart into it, and I believe that’s the biggest reason we’ve been able to do so well on this journey.
That first year? It was full of lessons—and plenty of bee stings! I’ve always struggled with anxiety, but to my surprise, the bees had a calming effect on me. It’s amazing how just being around them can settle your nerves once you’re suited up and working with them. Getting into the hive, inspecting the frames, and seeing the bees up close really gave me a whole new appreciation for how hard they work. It also made me realize just how much effort goes into every bit of honey.
Fun fact: Honey is mentioned 61 times in the Bible. It represents abundance, prosperity, and God’s blessings. No wonder the Bible says God’s words are sweeter than honey! For us, beekeeping is about more than just honey. It’s about taking care of these beautiful, vital creatures that God created. It’s about learning to adapt, working with nature, and letting the bees do what they know best. We feel blessed to be part of their world and to be able to harvest their honey while helping them stay healthy and strong.
If you're local and looking for fresh, raw honey straight from our hives, we’d love to share it with you! Reach out to find out how you can get some—and taste the difference for yourself.
By: Amber Kolasch
