Bees in loft - best way to remove?

[Ed Woods]

On Friday I will be examining a honey bee colony - described to me as about the size of a football hanging from the rafters.

Definately honey bees as the householder has had swarms in the past.

I'm thinking about cutting the wax comb and hanging them by elestic bands in empty frames with hopefully the Queen and most of the bees and placing in a NUC to encourage the rest of the bees into the NUC - then sealing it up in the evening.

Thoughts appreciated - will try and get some photos.

 

[viridens]

Swarms or not, I still wouldn't rule out a wasp nest...

If it is a honeybee colony your plan sounds ok, but If it is really football sized, a brood box might be a better bet.

 

[tonybloke]

I had a call about this particular issue this morning (I'm one of Norfolks swarm co-ordinators)
I recommended they get in touch with the WNBKA to get an experienced beekeeper to have a look at it, and then advise.