Published by: Brad Flynn | June 30, 2025
During the spring and summer, hundreds of thousands of honeybee swarms land on residents’ properties and in public spaces. These swarms, although usually harmless, cause alarm, and many people call 9-1-1 or an exterminator, rather than a beekeeper. Honeybees are critical pollinators. So, there is a no cost way to protect the bees.
The Borough is sharing information about a nonprofit group ‘Citizens of the Hive’, that helps the public report honeybee swarms and to hear from local beekeepers in minutes. These folks and their resources are designed to reduce strain on municipal staff and emergency services while ensuring swarms are safely rehomed, not destroyed.
Citizens of the Hive is a satellite partner of the California Master Beekeeper Program and a member of the North American Pollinator Protection Campaign.
In Pennsylvania, they have 216 beekeepers ready to respond to swarm reports. Many beekeepers are happy to collect swarms as a public service and as a way to replenish their hives after this year’s (2024/2025) particularly high winter losses.
To report a honeybee swarm, click here!
Remember to keep yourself safe. Keep your distance when collecting information to report a honeybee hive swarm. Do not disturb the hive! Honeybees in a swarm may attack if provoked.
Borough of Bath Honeybee Hive Swarm of April 29, 2025
