🟡 1. General Bee Removal Questions
What is bee removal?
Bee removal is the careful and professional process of getting rid of unwanted bees from your property—whether they’ve set up a hive inside your wall, moved into a backyard tree, or are swarming in a risky spot. Our team’s goal is to resolve bee problems safely for everyone involved: you, your family, and (whenever possible) the bees themselves. We use proven techniques to ensure the job is thorough and doesn’t leave behind honey or comb that could attract future pests.
How do you remove bees safely?
Safety is our top priority, both for people and for the bees. Our licensed technicians use protective suits, specialized equipment, and years of experience to assess each situation—whether it’s a swarm, an exposed hive, or bees hidden deep inside a structure. We follow state and local guidelines, always using humane and eco-friendly practices. When possible, we perform live removals and relocate healthy bees to local beekeepers. If live removal isn’t feasible, we use safe, targeted treatments that won’t put your household or pets at risk.
Do you kill the bees, or relocate them?
Whenever we can, we prioritize live removal and relocation. Healthy, accessible bee colonies are carefully gathered and delivered to trusted local beekeepers where they can continue their vital work in a safe environment. Sometimes, though, relocation isn’t possible—such as with aggressive Africanized hives, or colonies deeply embedded in structures. In these cases, we use methods that are as humane as possible, always aiming to eliminate the colony quickly and prevent future infestations. Our commitment is to protect pollinators whenever we can, and keep your home safe above all.
How soon can you come out for bee removal?
We know that bee issues can’t wait—especially during peak season! That’s why we offer same-day and next-day service throughout Phoenix and the surrounding Valley. When you call or request a quote, our friendly team will respond as quickly as possible, often getting to you within hours. We work hard to minimize your wait and resolve urgent bee situations with speed and care.
What areas do you serve?
Bee Removal Phoenix by Busy Bee Pest Solutions proudly serves all of Phoenix and the Valley, including Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, and neighboring communities. If you’re anywhere in the metro area or nearby, chances are we can help! Just reach out and we’ll let you know how soon we can get a technician to your area.
🟡 2. About Africanized Bees (“Killer Bees”)
What are Africanized bees?
Africanized honey bees—sometimes called “killer bees”—are a hybrid species that originated when African bees were introduced to South America and interbred with local honey bees. Over time, they spread north and have established themselves in Arizona and the Southwest. They look almost identical to regular honey bees but are known for being more defensive when disturbed.
Are Africanized bees common in Phoenix?
Yes, Africanized bees are widespread in Phoenix and the greater Valley. In fact, most wild bees you encounter here are likely Africanized to some degree. That doesn’t mean every hive is dangerous, but it does mean extra caution is needed, especially around unknown or wild colonies.
Are they more dangerous than regular honey bees?
Africanized bees aren’t more venomous, but they do react more quickly and aggressively if they feel threatened. This means they’re more likely to defend their hive in larger numbers, making stings more likely if you get too close. Most encounters are harmless, but it’s best to avoid disturbing any hive or swarm you find.
How do I know if the bees are Africanized?
It’s almost impossible to tell just by looking—Africanized and European honey bees are nearly identical to the naked eye. Their behavior, however, is the clue: if bees become agitated quickly or swarm aggressively, they could be Africanized. Our trained technicians can safely assess and handle any hive, no matter the species.
🟡 3. Bee Hive & Swarm Questions
What’s the difference between a hive and a swarm?
A hive is a permanent home where bees build honeycomb, raise their young, and store food. It’s usually hidden inside walls, trees, or other sheltered spots. A swarm is a temporary cluster of bees—usually seen hanging from a branch, fence, or even the side of a house—when a colony is searching for a new home. Swarms are usually calm, but they need prompt attention before they move in somewhere less convenient!
Why did bees pick my house?
Bees are drawn to sheltered, protected spaces with easy access—think attic vents, wall voids, sheds, or even water meters. Warm weather and the scent of old honeycomb can attract scout bees. If your home offers a cozy entrance, bees may move in before you even notice.
Can I just wait for the swarm to leave?
While some swarms do move on within a day or two, many decide to settle and start building a hive—especially if they find a perfect spot. The sooner you call us, the easier (and safer) it is to remove them before they become a bigger problem. Don’t risk waiting—swarming bees can turn into a full colony fast.
How big can a bee hive get in a wall?
Bee hives can grow surprisingly large—sometimes filling entire wall cavities or ceilings with honeycomb, honey, and thousands of bees. The longer a hive is left, the more damage it can cause (melted honey, structural issues, and attracting pests). Quick removal keeps repairs to a minimum.
What should I do if I find a hive in my home?
Stay calm and keep a safe distance—don’t try to block their entrance or spray chemicals. Call our team right away. We’ll assess the situation, explain your options, and safely remove the hive with minimal disruption to your home. If you or anyone nearby is allergic to bees, keep everyone away until we arrive.
🟡 4. Safety Concerns
Are bee stings dangerous?
Bee stings can be painful and, for some people, potentially dangerous. Most stings cause mild swelling, redness, and discomfort that fades after a day or two. However, if you’re allergic, a sting can trigger serious reactions—like difficulty breathing, swelling in the face or throat, dizziness, or even anaphylactic shock—which is a medical emergency. Even for those without allergies, multiple stings (as from an angry hive) can lead to more severe symptoms. If you or anyone nearby is stung and has trouble breathing, severe swelling, or feels faint, seek emergency help right away.
How can I keep my family and pets safe until you arrive?
First and foremost, keep everyone—including pets—indoors and away from the bees. Close doors and windows near the hive or swarm to prevent bees from wandering inside. Don’t try to disturb the bees with sprays, smoke, or loud noises, as this can provoke them and make the situation worse. Keep curious children and pets safely out of the area until we arrive. If you know someone has a bee allergy, be sure their emergency medication (like an EpiPen) is on hand, just in case. Our team will get to you quickly and handle the situation safely.
What if I’m allergic to bees?
If you’re allergic to bee stings, it’s very important to avoid any contact with bees, even if they seem calm or far away. Always carry your prescribed allergy medication (like an EpiPen) and make sure others in your home know where it is and how to use it. If you’re stung and begin to feel symptoms like trouble breathing, swelling, hives, or dizziness, seek medical help immediately. Let us know about your allergy when you call—we’ll prioritize your situation and make sure the area is made safe as soon as possible.
Can I try to remove the bees myself?
We strongly advise against trying to remove bees on your own. Even experienced DIY-ers can get into trouble—disturbing a hive or swarm without proper equipment or training can lead to aggressive behavior, multiple stings, and dangerous situations. Our team has the protective gear, specialized tools, and experience needed to remove bees safely and effectively. Plus, we can identify if you’re dealing with Africanized bees, which require extra caution. Your safety comes first—leave bee removal to the professionals.
🟡 5. Post-Removal & Prevention
Do I need to remove the honeycomb after the bees are gone?
Yes, removing the honeycomb is a crucial step after bee removal—especially if the hive was inside your walls, attic, or roof. Leftover honeycomb can melt in our Arizona heat, leading to messy stains, strong odors, and even attracting new pests like ants, moths, or rodents. In some cases, bees may try to return to the scent of old comb. Our team offers full hive and honeycomb removal services, making sure your home is left clean, safe, and protected against future problems.
How do you prevent bees from coming back?
Prevention starts with a thorough cleanup and repair after removal. We seal up entry points, clean out any leftover comb, and advise you on ways to keep bees from being attracted to your home again. This can include repairing screens, vents, or cracks where bees could enter, and making sure there’s no lingering honey scent. We’re always happy to walk you through what was done and what steps you can take to “bee-proof” your property in the future.
What repairs or cleanup do I need?
The amount of repair needed depends on where the hive was located and how long it was there. Sometimes, removal requires opening up a wall, roof, or soffit to access the hive—if so, we’ll handle cleanup and provide recommendations for repairs. We’ll leave the area tidy, remove all comb and debris, and do our best to minimize disruption to your home. If any major repair is needed (like patching drywall or roofing), we can refer you to trusted local contractors.
Do you offer warranties or guarantees?
Yes! We stand behind our work with warranties and satisfaction guarantees. If bees return to the same spot within the warranty period (usually 30–90 days, depending on the service), we’ll come back and resolve the issue at no extra charge. Our goal is to give you lasting peace of mind. Be sure to ask about specific warranty details for your service when you call.
🟡 6. Costs, Quotes, & Insurance
How much does bee removal cost?
Most bee removal jobs in Phoenix range from $145 to $250, depending on the size of the colony, where it’s located, and how easy it is to access. If the bees are out in the open—like a swarm on a tree or bush—it’s usually on the lower end. If the hive is hidden inside a wall, roof, or other structure, the cost may be higher, especially if we need to cut into building materials to reach the bees and remove honeycomb. These jobs are messier and take more time, but we’ll always explain the process and pricing up front so there are no surprises.
Is bee removal covered by homeowners insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your policy and insurance company. Some homeowners insurance policies may help with repairs after bee removal—especially if the bees caused structural damage—but many do not cover the cost of the removal itself. We recommend calling your insurance agent before scheduling service to see what your policy includes. We’re happy to provide detailed invoices or documentation if you need them for your claim.
Can I get a free estimate?
Absolutely! We offer free, no-obligation estimates—just give us a call or fill out our quick online form. We’ll ask a few questions about your situation and, in many cases, can provide a quote right over the phone. If we need to see the site first, we’re happy to come out and assess, then give you a clear estimate before any work begins.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We aim to make things easy for you! We accept most major forms of payment, including cash, credit and debit cards, and sometimes even digital payments (ask for details). If you need a receipt for insurance or records, we’ll provide one promptly.
🟡 7. Bee-Friendly & Live Removal
Do you save or relocate the bees?
Yes, whenever it’s possible and safe, we prioritize live bee removal and relocation. We work with local beekeepers who welcome healthy colonies and give them a second chance to thrive. Our goal is always to protect both your home and Arizona’s bee population, which plays a vital role in pollination and our ecosystem. When relocation is possible, we carefully gather the bees and transport them to their new home, where they’ll be put to good use—not destroyed.
Is live removal always possible?
While we do our best to save and relocate bees, live removal isn’t always an option. Sometimes the hive is too deeply embedded in a structure, the colony is unusually aggressive (such as with Africanized bees), or environmental conditions make safe relocation impossible. In these cases, we use the safest and most humane methods available to eliminate the threat and prevent future problems. We’ll always explain your options and our reasoning before starting any work, so you know what’s happening and why.
What happens to the bees after removal?
Whenever possible, we relocate healthy bee colonies to safe, remote areas rich in natural plants and wildflowers—far from neighborhoods and homes. This gives the bees a fresh start in a place where they won’t pose a risk to people or pets, and where they can continue pollinating the local ecosystem. Most professional beekeepers do not accept Africanized bees due to their defensive nature, so releasing them in the wild is the most responsible, humane option. We take care to choose release sites where the bees have plenty of resources and space to thrive naturally. Our goal is always to protect both your safety and the important role bees play in the environment
🟡 8. Bee Myths Busted
“If I ignore a bee hive, it’ll go away on its own.”
Unfortunately, this is almost never true! Most bee colonies will stay and grow, expanding their hive, building more comb, and storing more honey. Over time, they can cause significant structural damage, attract pests, and even become more aggressive if disturbed. The sooner you address a hive, the easier—and safer—the solution.
“Smoking the hive will make the bees leave.”
Smoking a hive doesn’t make bees pack up and go—it only calms them temporarily by masking alarm pheromones. Professional beekeepers use smoke to inspect hives safely, not to drive bees out. If you smoke a wild hive, they’re likely to stay put and could become agitated later. It’s not a safe or effective removal method.
“All bees in Arizona are aggressive.”
Not true! While Africanized bees are common and can be more defensive, most bees are not out to attack unless threatened. Honey bees and even most wild bees simply want to protect their colony. With the right approach, most colonies can be removed safely and without incident.
“Bee swarms are always dangerous.”
Bee swarms may look intimidating, but they’re usually at their calmest while searching for a new home. Swarming bees have no hive to defend, so they’re less likely to sting unless provoked. However, it’s still best to keep your distance and call a professional to handle any swarm safely.
“I can seal up the hole and trap them inside.”
Sealing up a bee entrance without professional removal can actually make things worse. Trapped bees may try to find another way out—sometimes into your living spaces! Or, they’ll die and create odors, attract pests, and leave behind honeycomb that causes further damage. Always remove the hive and comb first, then seal up the entry point to prevent re-infestation.
🟡 9. Wasp & Hornet Questions
Do you remove wasps and hornets?
Absolutely! Our team handles wasp and hornet problems of all shapes and sizes, whether you’ve found a small paper wasp nest under your eaves or a massive hornet colony in your backyard shed. We use safe, effective techniques to eliminate nests and keep your home or business protected.
How are wasp nests different from bee hives?
Wasp nests are usually built from a papery material—created by the wasps chewing wood and mixing it with saliva. You’ll often see them hanging under eaves, in bushes, or tucked into sheds and attics. Bee hives, on the other hand, are made of wax combs filled with honey and brood, and are often hidden inside walls or trees. Wasps rarely produce honey, and their colonies don’t survive through winter like honey bees do.
Are wasps dangerous?
Yes, wasps and hornets can be quite aggressive—especially if their nest is threatened. Their stings are painful and, for some people, can trigger allergic reactions. Some wasp species can sting multiple times. It’s best to keep your distance and call a professional for safe removal, especially with large nests or if anyone nearby is allergic.
Why can’t you relocate wasps like bees?
Unlike bees, wasps and hornets don’t have the same ecological benefits or pollination value. Their colonies are short-lived and die off each winter, and relocating them isn’t practical or safe. Our goal is to remove the nest completely, making your property safe while minimizing any risk to you and your family.
What types of wasps are common in Phoenix?
You’ll most commonly encounter paper wasps, yellowjackets, and mud daubers in the Phoenix area. Paper wasps build umbrella-shaped nests, yellowjackets nest in the ground or wall voids, and mud daubers create small, tube-like mud nests. Each species behaves a little differently, but all can be unwelcome guests around your home or business.
What’s the safest way to get rid of a wasp nest?
The safest option is always to call a professional. Our technicians have the protective gear, specialized sprays, and experience needed to safely remove nests—no matter how tricky or intimidating the location. Never try to knock down or spray a nest yourself, as wasps may swarm and sting. We’re here to make the process quick, safe, and worry-free.
🟡 10. About Our Company
Why choose Bee Removal Phoenix by Busy Bee Pest Solutions?
We treat every customer like a neighbor—because you are! We’re locally owned and operated, and our technicians have seen it all: from the most routine jobs to the truly strange (ask us about the beehive in the barbecue grill!). Our focus is on honesty, safety, and service that goes above and beyond. When you call Busy Bee, you get real expertise with a friendly touch.
How much experience do you have?
Our technicians bring years of hands-on experience dealing with bees, wasps, hornets, and everything in between. We’ve removed hives from rooftops, swarms from trees, nests from playgrounds, and rescued families from the weirdest situations Arizona can offer. No matter what you’re facing, we’ve handled something just like it before—and probably something weirder!
Are your technicians licensed and insured?
Yes! Bee Removal Phoenix by Busy Bee Pest Solutions is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind. We hold an Arizona Department of Agriculture Pest Control License (#10332), which means our team meets all the requirements for safe, legal, and effective pest control in the state. You’re always in good hands with us.