Over the next couple of months you might find a cluster of bees, called a swarm, attached to a tree, shrub or even your house.   The discovery can certainly unnerve some people, however, it is a very natural, fascinating and wonderful part of the life cycle of honey bees.

Honey bee swarms are not highly dangerous under most circumstances. Swarming honey bees feed prior to swarming, reducing their ability to sting. Furthermore, bees away from the vicinity of their nest or hive are less defensive and are unlikely to sting unless provoked.

What should you do? You have two choices. First, do nothing and know swarms are temporary and the bees will move on if you patiently ignore them. Stay back and keep others away from the swarm, but feel free to admire and appreciate the bees from a safe distance. They may stay around for a few days, depending on how quickly the scout bees find a suitable new home. Secondly you can contact the Four Corners Beekeepers Association at (970) 884-8190 who could remove the swarm and provide them a happy new home.