Bee Identification & Control
Moderate RiskBees: When to Protect, When to Remove
Scientific name: Apis mellifera, Bombus spp.
Honey bees are essential pollinators and vital to California's agricultural economy. Our policy is to prioritize live bee relocation over extermination whenever the situation permits. That said, a honey bee hive established inside a wall, soffit, or chimney creates structural damage from comb and honey, ongoing sting risk, and secondary pest attraction that requires professional removal. Bee swarms — temporary clusters of bees seeking a new home — are generally non-aggressive and often resolve on their own within 24–72 hours.
Before You Call
What to Note About the Bees You Found
Note where bees enter or gather, and whether you can see a colony without approaching it.
Schedule ServiceHow We Treat It
Services for Bees
The right method depends on the species and how far activity has spread. These are the services we use against this pest.
Active Service Areas
Where We Treat Bees
Common Questions
Bees FAQs
Can I just leave a honey bee hive in my wall?
Not without consequence. An active hive in a wall grows steadily — thousands of bees become tens of thousands, and the comb structure expands. When the colony eventually dies (from pesticides, winter, or disease), the unattended wax comb melts in summer heat and honey permeates the wall cavity. This attracts ants, rodents, and secondary insects, and the odor can be significant. Removal and comb extraction are more difficult and expensive after a colony has been established for years.
Related Pests
Pests Often Confused or Found Together
Professional Treatment
Ready to Get Help With Bees?
Our licensed technicians serve Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties, plus San Francisco. If you're new to us, start a recurring plan and we'll take 10% off your first service. Written estimate before any work.
Or call us directly: (831) 500-1613