Live Bee Removal vs Extermination, Which is Better?
As we’ve often said in our previous articles, Honey Bees play an essential role in our ecosystem. That’s because their function as pollinators supports agricultural production while maintaining biodiversity.
That said, their presence among humans can sometimes lead to conflicts, especially when bees establish nests in unwanted locations, such as within the places where humans live…their homes.
Thus, when faced with a bee problem, homeowners may sometimes wonder whether to opt for live bee removal ( also sometimes referred to as live bee relocation) or extermination. In fact, over the years, more and more of our customers have been asking that very question.
So, I thought it might be a good idea to write an article where we compare both methods, weighing the pros and cons of each, to help others make an informed decision. So, without further ado, here we go.
Live Bee Removal
Live bee removal, involves carefully removing a beehive or colony and transporting it to a more suitable location where the bees can thrive. For safety reasons, this process should only be carried out by a professional beekeeper or bee removal specialist who is trained and experienced in doing this type of work.
Bee Extermination
Bee extermination, on the other hand, involves the use of chemical pesticides, or other means, to eradicate the bee colony. This method is often seen as a quicker solution, but it carries significant implications for the environment and bee populations.
The Case for Live Bee Removal
Environmental Impact
Live bee removal is considered a more environmentally friendly and humane option. By preserving the colony, we maintain the vital role that honey bees play in pollination, which is essential for plants, crops and our environment.
Safety for Property Owners
While honey bees are generally not aggressive, they can nonetheless be provoked. Live bee removal and relocation minimizes the risk of bee stings, which can be a potential concern for persons with allergies.
Community Awareness
Choosing to remove bees and relocate them can promote awareness about the importance of bees and encourage community action to protect pollinators, leading to more sustainable practices in managing bee populations.
The Downsides of Live Bee Removal
Cost and Resources
Live bee removal can be more expensive than extermination. It often requires specialized equipment and skilled professionals.
Time-Consuming
Live bee removals can take time, including assessing the situation, safely extracting the colony and transporting it to a new location. These factors may not be conducive to the sense of urgency some homeowners feel.
Possible Risks
If not done correctly, relocation efforts can stress the bees, leading to potential injury or death, which defeats the purpose of a live bee removal scenario.
The Case for Extermination
Immediate Solution
Exterminating bees can provide a faster solution to an urgent problem, especially if the bees pose a direct threat to people or pets. It may be the preferred choice for those with severe allergies or those who may fear bees.
Cost-Effectiveness
In many cases, bee extermination may be less expensive than live bee removal.
Simplicity
Extermination often requires less time and labor when compared to live bee removal and relocation.
The Downsides of Extermination
Environmental Harm
The use of pesticides can have detrimental effects on the ecosystem, impacting not only the targeted bee population but also other beneficial insects and the plants that rely on them.
Public Backlash
Increasing public awareness of pollinator decline and environmental protection efforts, has resulted in negative perceptions of extermination practices. Homeowners may face community backlash for choosing to exterminate bees.
Making the Right Choice
When deciding between live bee removal and extermination, it’s essential to consider the specific circumstances of the situation. Factors such as the type of bees involved, the location of the hive, safety concerns and cost can all influence the best course of action.