Bumble Bee Control in Feasterville, PA

Gentle and beneficial, bumble bees are welcome in many Feasterville gardens. However, problems arise when they build nests too close to homes or businesses. While bumble bees rarely nest inside structures, they are sometimes mistaken for carpenter bees, which can cause property damage.

If you're unsure whether you're dealing with bumble bees, carpenter bees, or wasps, it's best to contact a pest management professional. Accurate identification is crucial since treatment methods vary widely. Unlike aggressive wasps, which require extermination, bumble bees play a vital role in pollination and should be relocated rather than eliminated.

How to Identify Bumble Bees

Bumble bees are often mistaken for other species. Proper identification ensures that beneficial bees are not harmed.

• Typically black with yellow, orange, or red stripes.
• Fuzzy hair covers their entire body, including the abdomen.
• Size varies from ¼ inch to 1 inch, with queens being slightly larger.
• Females have a stinger and a pointed abdomen, while males lack a stinger and have a rounder abdomen.
• Workers carry pollen in a specialized "pollen basket" on their rear legs.

Where Do Bumble Bees Nest?

Fertile queens emerge in the spring to establish new nests. Bumble bees prefer dry, hidden spaces, such as:

• Underground cavities or abandoned animal burrows.
• Beneath wood piles, compost heaps, or yard debris.
• Hollowed-out areas within man-made structures.

Bumble bee nests are much smaller than honeybee hives, typically housing between 50 and 400 bees. These nests are abandoned at the end of the year.

What Do Bumble Bees Eat?

Bumble bees rely on nectar and pollen for survival. Nectar provides sugar for energy, while pollen is rich in protein. They also produce small amounts of honey to feed their young and the queen.

Do Bumble Bees Cause Property Damage?

Unlike carpenter bees, bumble bees do not drill into wood or cause structural damage. However, if they establish a nest within a building, the abandoned hive may lead to mold and mildew issues.

Are Bumble Bees Aggressive?

Bumble bees are generally non-aggressive. Only females have stingers, and they sting only when threatened. Unlike honeybees, which sting once and die, bumble bees can sting multiple times.

Do Bumble Bees Carry Diseases?

While they do not spread diseases to humans, bumble bees can transmit certain viruses to other bee species. Their venom may cause mild swelling and itching in most people. However, those allergic to bee stings may experience severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.

How to Detect a Bumble Bee Nest

Signs of a nearby bumble bee nest include:

• Frequent sightings of bumble bees foraging for nectar and pollen.
• Bumble bees entering and exiting a particular nest site.

How to Prevent Bumble Bees from Nesting

To reduce the likelihood of bumble bees nesting on your property:

• Seal cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior.
• Minimize outdoor food sources, such as uncovered trash or compost.
• Ensure proper drainage to eliminate standing water.
• Fill in abandoned animal burrows.
• Keep yard debris and wood piles away from structures.

Safe Bumble Bee Removal

Newtown Termite & Pest Control values the role of bumble bees in the ecosystem. We recommend contacting a local beekeeper for safe removal rather than extermination. If you're facing a bee-related issue, our team can assess the situation and provide expert guidance.