Ptilothrix bombiformis? - Ask Extension
Hello, we're working on our home and have disturbed these bees. They are not in a good place because we have more work to do here. Is there a good way...
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Ptilothrix bombiformis? #874327
Asked June 23, 2024, 6:27 PM EDT
Hello, we're working on our home and have disturbed these bees. They are not in a good place because we have more work to do here. Is there a good way to relocate them. Do I need to be concerned? They seem very nonagressive and decent pollinators so I'd hate to see them leave the property. Just want to do right by them.
(I think I have the ID correct)
Columbia County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi Jessica,
Good job on the identification! You go a good photo which is not easy to do with bees!
Moving a bumble bee nest is tricky. If you don't need to disturb the actual nest site but could direct them to enter away from where you are working, that would be ideal. Could you lean a piece of cardboard or plywood over the entrance area, so that the bees are required to fly out a away from the direction of where you are working?
If not, here's what North Carolina State University, Small Farms, has to say on "Emergency Bumble Bee Relocation". This has complete details of what to consider when needed to move a bumble bee nest.
Good job on the identification! You go a good photo which is not easy to do with bees!
Moving a bumble bee nest is tricky. If you don't need to disturb the actual nest site but could direct them to enter away from where you are working, that would be ideal. Could you lean a piece of cardboard or plywood over the entrance area, so that the bees are required to fly out a away from the direction of where you are working?
If not, here's what North Carolina State University, Small Farms, has to say on "Emergency Bumble Bee Relocation". This has complete details of what to consider when needed to move a bumble bee nest.
