Residents in Southwest Florida have noticed a surge in bee activity, especially in Cape Coral, with swarms appearing in parks, near dumpsters, trash cans and schools.
Experts say all the buzz is completely normal and happens after major storms. NBC2 spoke to Andrew Behe, co-founder of Solveary Pest Control, about the influx of bee activity.
He explains that high winds often destroy bee nests and plants, forcing them to search for food and new homes. “They’re in survival mode, just like us after a storm,” Behe said.
Homeowner John Strider noticed a hive in a tree that uprooted during the storm. He says there were at least 500 bees in the nests on the downed tree.
As bees navigate their environment, it's important to give them time. If you find yourself near a hive, stay calm if you encounter them. Swatting can trigger defensive pheromones, making bees more aggressive. Instead, give them space to find food and shelter.
If you find that a swarm hasn't moved away from your home, call a beekeeper to safely remove the hive. This helps protect the bees and supports their vital role in the ecosystem.
While the increase in bee activity may be startling, it’s a natural response to storms.