Bumblebees under patio doors!

Larumbelle

susieb wrote: »

I got stung by a bumble bee today - both the bumblebee and me are ok tho'

I thought bees always died after stinging. Is that just an urban myth?

I agree with the others who say leave them be. Yes, it can be a little inconvenient, but having a nest in your garden is a privilege really, you'll have no pollination problems! Bees are friends not just of gardeners, but of all humankind. I read somewhere that the population of pollinators has fallen by 70% in just fifteen years, and I'm pleased that you don't want to add to that. Added to that, many species of bumblebee are protected and as even scientists have to look really closely to positively identify them, the casual observer has no chance, so by killing them you could be breaking the law.

Bumblebee nests only last six weeks to a couple of months, at which point they scatter and the new queens found their own colony. If you really don't want them there it may be worth watching until there is a lull in their activity, then blocking off the access point. Personally though, I'd put up with it - they really aren't bothered by you being there, and they won't bother you. You might even start thinking of them fondly, not as if they're pets, exactly, but certainly pleased that they're a part of your life I tend to find that if mine fly in they do a quick circuit of the room, realise that this isn't where they want to be, then fly straight back out again. I have colonies of 'bimblebums' all over my garden. I have pretty much given up on trying to compost in my dalek as it seems to be an overwintering spot for them as well as hosting three or four broods last year. They are so relaxed by my presence that they don't even seem bothered if I lift the lid for a quick peek at the nest - they just carry on regardless.

frivolous_fay

silvercharming wrote: »

I thought bees always died after stinging. Is that just an urban myth?

Honeybees only
http://hercules.users.netlink.co.uk/Bee.html

Barneysmom

olly300 wrote: »

Nope both bumble bees and honey bees are in trouble.

Bumble bees - http://www.bumblebeeconservation.org/

Olly, I'm just looking at the site now, thanks for that, I'm thinking of joining. :cool:

carole.uk

I had this last year they moved in right next to the back door . TBH it was no problem when we got use to them and we always have young children about. they went away in sept time and have not seen them since. shame i was looking forward to their return