Do honey bees leave their hives in the winter in Southern Ca?

Question

I have a honey bee hive in a birdhouse that is permanently mounted on a pole. The bees attacked my head when I was using a electric trimmer. Is there a repelent that would make them relocate or will they leave on there own in winter so I can seal up the openings in the birdhouse? Removal will cost $350.

Answer 1

I'm a beekeeper so I might be able to hep with this one... bees don't like loud vibrating machinery, thus the attempts to drive you away while you used the trimmer.

The good news is that many beekeepers will gladly remove the bees for free! Many beekeepers seek out swarms and some will even do removals free of charge because they will use the bees to start a new colony. BUT most beekeepers want honeybees and won't touch it if it's a hornet's nest.  Look in the phone book or call around to see if there is a beekeeper/beekeeping group in your area.

I don't recommend spraying them. Even if you successfully kill all the bees (and the world needs more of these, not less) more will likely take up residence. Long after the spray decomposes there will still be honey and wax- a big draw to any wayward bees in the area looking for a new furnished home!

Good Luck!

Answer 2

They do not leave their  "hive" unless threatened by fire or some pathology, e.g., CCD.  In freezing weather, they will be sluggish and more dormant.

Answer 3

I doubt the would leave.  I live in Ohio, and we have winter with a capital "W" sometimes.  Temperatures frequently in the single digits.

Bees around here just stay in their hives, and go into a light hibernation.

I doubt they would have any reason to leave a home in So Cal, at any time, if they like it there.