Honey Bee

Profile

Scientific name

Apis mellifera

Identification

Fuzzy amber-and-brown body, hairy legs carrying pollen, and wax comb. Yellowjackets by contrast are smooth, brightly banded and build gray paper nests.

Typical size

Workers about 1/2 inch.

Behavior

Defends the colony but is far less aggressive than yellowjackets. Colonies persist year after year and store honey.

Habitat

Wall voids, soffits, chimneys, attics, hollow trees and hive boxes.

Diet

Nectar and pollen.

Lifecycle

Perennial colony with a single queen; swarming is how colonies reproduce, typically in spring.

Why it matters

Honey bees are important pollinators. A colony in a wall is also a building problem: abandoned comb and honey attract other pests and can stain and damage finishes. Anyone with a sting allergy should stay well clear.

DIY considerations

Never spray or seal a colony inside a wall. Trapped bees and abandoned honey lead to worse problems, including staining, odor and secondary pests.

Professional considerations

Bed Bugs & Beyond does not perform honey bee colony removal. This profile is here so you can identify honey bees correctly and contact a local beekeeper or a bee removal specialist, who can remove the colony and comb.

Signs of activity

• Steady bee traffic through one small opening in a wall, soffit or chimney
• Honey or wax staining bleeding through interior drywall
• A hanging cluster of bees on a limb, post or wall
• Increased indoor bees in rooms adjoining the void

Prevention

• Seal potential entry gaps at soffits, chimneys and utility penetrations before spring
• Cap unused chimney flues and screen vents
• Have previously occupied voids fully cleaned out so residual comb does not attract new swarms

Sources

• Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Auburn University) — household pests
• University of Florida IFAS — Featured Creatures (entomology profiles)