Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) guide. This FAQ highlights key points about honeybee swarming, how to recognize it, and steps you can take to manage or prevent swarming in your hives.

What is swarming in honeybees?

Swarming is a natural reproductive process in which a colony divides. When a hive becomes crowded and resources are abundant, the colony prepares for swarming by constructing new queen cells. Once these cells are capped, about half of the bees—along with the old queen—exit the hive to form a cluster elsewhere. This event, while dramatic, is a sign that the colony is thriving and healthy.

Why do bees decide to swarm?

Bees swarm primarily because the colony has reached a point of congestion. Key factors include:

Overcrowding: The bees run out of space for brood and honey storage.
Abundant Resources: When the hive contains an overabundance of food, it prompts the colony to reproduce.
Swarm Cell Formation: The development and capping of new queen cells signal that the time to divide has come.

These conditions indicate that the colony is healthy enough to afford the "cost" of a swarm.

What types of bees might I find in Belgium?

Honey Bees: Managed by beekeepers, they vary in colour from golden brown to almost black, have large hairy eyes, a furry thorax, and bent antennae. They often form distinctive swarms when relocating.
Bumblebees: There are around 30 species in Belgium. They are generally larger, rounder, and furrier than honey bees, with various coloured stripes. Bumblebees are often found nesting in bird boxes, under decking, or in compost.
Solitary Bees: With over 400 species recorded in Belgium, these bees do not live in colonies. Each female builds her own nest, and while they may nest close together, they cause no harm.

How can I identify bumblebees?

Bumblebees are usually mistaken for honey bees but can be distinguished by their:

Rounder, larger, and furrier appearance.
Varied coloured stripes across the end of their tails.
Tendency to nest in discreet places like bird boxes or under decking.

They are generally non-aggressive and should be left alone as they die out naturally by the end of summer.

How can I identify hornets, and what steps should be taken?

There are two types of hornets to be aware of:

European Hornets: They are large with a mix of black, brown, and a hint of orange. They typically have a pronounced curved tail and can be found in roofs or sheds.
Asian Hornets: Distinct from European hornets, Asian Hornets have a dark, velvety body, with yellow markings at the end of their legs, and are smaller. Asian Hornets are invasive and can severely impact honey bee populations. If an Asian Hornet is identified, it is imperative to report it as per guidance on authorities or hornet removal services.

How do I differentiate bee-mimicking hoverflies from true bees?

Hoverflies are often mistaken for bees, but there are key differences:

Wings: Bees have two pairs of wings, whereas flies (including hoverflies) have only one pair.
Antennae and Eyes: Hoverflies have short antennae and larger eyes that cover most of their head, in contrast to bees' longer, paired antennae and hairy eyes.

Knowing these differences can help ensure that non-bee insects are not mistakenly targeted for removal.

Who can help with the removal or management of bees and other insects?

Beekeepers are specifically trained to assist with honey bees, particularly in swarm situations. They cannot help with bumblebees, solitary bees, wasps, bee mimicking hoverflies, or hornets. For such cases, alternate advice or organizations (such as local pest controllers) should be contacted as appropriate.