Swarm Season: Understanding, Catching, and Outsmarting Your Bees

Spring is here — and so is swarm season. Whether you’ve watched half your hive fly away in a buzzing cloud or you’re determined to get ahead of it this year, this month’s meeting is for you. Guild members Branon and Haj will walk us through everything you need to know about one of beekeeping’s most exciting (and sometimes stressful) natural events.

We’ll cover the full swarm picture: what’s actually happening inside the hive leading up to a swarm, how to recognize the warning signs before it happens, and what to do when you get that “there’s a swarm in my yard” call. Haj will also do a hands-on show-and-tell on the gear you actually need to catch a swarm — so you’ll know exactly what to have ready before the season kicks off.

By the end of the evening, you’ll have answers to:

– Why do bees swarm — and what triggers it in our Central Coast climate?

– What equipment do I need to safely and successfully catch a swarm?

– What’s a bait hive, and how do I set one up to attract a free colony?

Whether this is your first spring with bees or your fifteenth, swarm season always has something new to teach. Come with questions — and maybe a swarm story or two.

Parking Instructions

Parking inside El Rio Mobile Home Park is prohibited.

• Metered street parking is available.
• Use the Lenz Arts lot, but avoid the ivy wall/gate with “no parking” signs for after-hours staff access.

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