EMERGENCY PEST GUIDE
I Found a Bee Swarm or Hive
Arizona has a large Africanized bee population. They're more aggressive than European bees. Do not disturb the hive.
Stay Away from the Hive
Keep at least 30 feet from the hive or swarm. Africanized bees defend aggressively and can chase threats for over 100 yards. Their response is triggered by vibration, dark colors, and carbon dioxide (breathing near the hive).
Know the Difference: Swarm vs. Hive
A swarm is a ball of bees hanging from a tree branch or structure — they're looking for a new home and are usually calm. Swarms often move on within 24-48 hours. A hive is established bees entering and exiting a wall void, tree trunk, or box — this requires professional removal.
Keep People and Pets Away
Don't mow the lawn, use power tools, or make loud noises near the hive. Vibration is their primary threat trigger. Keep children and dogs well away from the area.
What NOT to Do
Don't spray the hive with water or insecticide — this triggers a massive defensive response. Don't try to smoke them out. Don't seal the entry hole with caulk (trapped bees will find another way into your house). Don't try DIY removal — Africanized bees attack in large numbers.
Call for Professional Removal
Call us at (480) 864-2728. We remove the hive, extract honeycomb from wall voids (if left behind, melting honeycomb attracts other pests and causes structural damage), and treat the area to prevent re-establishment. Same-day service is available for bee emergencies.
If You're Stung by Multiple Bees
- Get indoors or into a car immediately — run in a straight line, don't swat
- Remove stingers by scraping with a credit card (don't squeeze with tweezers)
- Apply ice to reduce swelling
- Take antihistamine (Benadryl) for mild reactions
- Call 911 if you experience: throat swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness, hives spreading across your body, or if you were stung more than 10 times
- People with known bee allergies should use their EpiPen and call 911 immediately
NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP?
We're Here Right Now
Same-day service available. Call or text us — we'll get someone to your property fast.