BBKA Forum

Hi I know this forum is more for honey bees. Would welcome some thoughts and advice please. I have a composter that actually looks like a bee hive. I need to move it as a new shed is to be put on that site. There is a bumble bee nest in the, hive,. What is the best way to move it without killing the bees or getting stung.

Suit up, at dusk or dark, with gloved hands , scoop out if compost bin, stick in a box and move to another site.

OK. Thank you. So if I wear track suit type clothes and gloves that would be OK

Bumble bees are usually pretty placid but you are moving a nest. If they have a chestnut front half and a white rear they may be Tree Bumble bees which can be defensive, but they don’t usually nest in compost heaps. In a compost heap and if they are black yellow and white they are much more likely to be Buff tailed bumblebees which are very easy going.

No , you should wear a protective veil as well as a completely covering your body . Bees often go for the head area in preference when defending their nests.

A "terrorist" style balaclava and sky goggles might suffice

I would ask for some advice in your local area. I’m sure a local bee keeper could help you out, despite them not being honey bees, most of us have an interest in conservation and protecting all species.