Bees

 

Bumblebee close-up

Having problems with bees?

Bees rarely cause issues unless they nest in or very close to your home. Honey bees, in particular, can create long-term problems if a colony settles inside a wall or roof void, as honeycomb and residue can attract pests and cause damage over time.

Whenever possible, we recommend leaving bees alone to thrive — they’re hugely beneficial for gardens and local crops. If you’re unsure what type of bee you have, or the nest is in a risky location, get in touch and we’ll advise the safest next step.

Professional Bee Nest Advice, Relocation & Removal Services in the UK

Bees are essential pollinators and a huge benefit to gardens, crops, and local ecosystems. Most of the time, a nest can be left alone safely — but if bees are nesting in a high-risk area (near entrances, schools, public walkways, or inside a building), you may need professional support.

Relocation First, Whenever Possible

Relocating a colony is often the preferred option for outdoor or accessible nests (for example in bushes, trees, sheds, or ground-level areas). A local beekeeper or experienced pest professional can assess the nest and advise whether relocation is suitable.

When Removal Becomes Necessary

If a nest is located inside a structure (such as a cavity wall, roof space, chimney void, or awkward enclosed area), relocation may not be possible. In these situations, the priority becomes safety — especially where there is a risk of stings to children, vulnerable individuals, or the public.

What Happens After Removal

Prevention is just as important as removal. Blocking access points and addressing attractants reduces the chance of repeat nesting, and the right approach depends on the bee type.

  • Bumblebees: sealing entry holes prevents re-entry and new nesting attempts.
  • Solitary/Masonry bees: thorough re-pointing and mortar repair is the long-term solution.
  • Honey bees: removing honeycomb where possible is important to avoid attracting other bees and pests.

Need help with a swarm? Use Bee.Watch

Bee Control FAQ

No, bees do not carry or transmit diseases to humans. However, their stings can pose health risks—especially for individuals allergic to bee venom. Reactions can range from mild swelling to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Yes. Outdoor or ground-level bee nests, especially in bushes, trees, or sheds, can often be relocated safely by a local beekeeper or pest control expert. Relocation is the preferred method to preserve the colony and avoid unnecessary harm.
If a nest is located in a high-risk area—like near entrances, schools, or heavily used spaces—removal may be necessary to protect people from stings. In such cases, expert advice should be sought to determine the safest solution.
Contact a local beekeeper or pest control specialist. They can assess whether relocation or treatment is the best course of action. Never attempt to remove or disturb the nest yourself, especially without protective equipment.
For most people, bee stings are a temporary discomfort. However, those allergic to bee venom should take extra precautions. Carrying an EpiPen and seeking immediate medical attention after a sting is vital if you are known to have an allergy.
In cases where relocation isn’t possible due to accessibility or safety risks, treatment may be required. This should only be performed by trained professionals who can seal entry points and use approved insecticides responsibly.
After removal, it’s essential to block off any nest access points. For bumblebees, sealing holes will prevent reinfestation. With solitary bees, thorough re-pointing of mortar is key. For honey bees, removing all honeycomb is crucial to avoid attracting other bees.

More About Shire Pest Solutions

Shire Pest Solutions is a trusted and local pest control company proudly serving homes and businesses across Oxfordshire and beyond. We have built our reputation on professionalism, reliability, and fast response times, specialising in the safe and effective removal of pests including ants, wasps, rodents, bed bugs, and more.

Our expert technicians hold full qualifications and use the latest tools and treatments to resolve pest problems quickly and safely—without unnecessary disruption. Whether you face a minor domestic issue or a large-scale commercial infestation, we design our services to meet your needs with minimal fuss and maximum effectiveness.

Based locally, we regularly assist customers in Didcot, Wallingford, Abingdon, Wantage, Witney, Newbury, Thame, Thatcham, and Stokenchurch. Our knowledge of the local area enables us to provide rapid call-outs and treatments that are suited to the unique pest challenges of each location.

At Shire Pest Solutions, we don’t just eliminate pests—we stop them from returning. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and we dedicate ourselves to customer satisfaction, making us the go-to pest control provider for homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients alike.

Contact us today to arrange a call-out or find out more about our pest control services across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas.