When winter arrives, many people assume honey bees disappear until spring. In fact, these industrious insects don’t hibernate, they form a tight cluster inside their nest, using stored honey and teamwork to generate warmth and survive the cold months.
For homeowners with bees in walls, chimneys, or roof voids, this winter behaviour can lead to confusion. Should you wait until spring or is now the time to act?
What Is a Dormant Hive?
A “dormant” hive isn’t inactive, it’s simply a hive where bees are clustered tightly together, conserving energy and warmth. Inside walls or roof spaces, this cluster is usually well‑insulated, but it still needs enough stored honey and a stable environment to survive.
Left unchecked, bees can cause structural issues (comb buildup, honey leaks, pests attracted to honey), and colonies left over winter may emerge in spring with potential for swarming. Early assessment and planning help manage these risks.
Winter: A Good Time for Planning, Not Always for Removal
Although winter removals are sometimes possible, experts generally recommend caution:
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Moving a colony during cold conditions, particularly if they are in a tight cluster, can break that cluster and risk their survival.
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Many beekeepers avoid moving hives in the depths of winter unless it is essential; carefully timed moves (for example, after prolonged cold when bees are clustered and inactive) may allow relocation without forcing bees to fly or break cluster abruptly.
What is ideal in winter is planning:
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Identify signs of hidden colonies (buzzing, staining, honey odours, entry points)
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Arrange professional assessments ahead of spring
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Book ethical, pesticide‑free removal services early
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Prepare for any necessary hive‑proofing and property maintenance
Why Professional Assessment Matters
Bees in buildings can be complex to manage. Ethical removals require:
✔️ Minimising disturbance to the colony
✔️ Preserving bee health and survival
✔️ Preventing structural damage
✔️ Planning ahead of spring swarms
An expert can assess whether a winter removal is truly necessary or if a planned spring relocation is the more humane and sustainable option.
Winter doesn’t stop bees — it simply changes how they survive. Understanding their behaviour helps homeowners make informed decisions and protect both their property and our vital pollinators.
Thinking you might have bees in your property this winter?
Contact us for a professional, ethical assessment before spring arrives.
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