British Bees: What to Do If They Nest Nearby
Bees are among the most important insects in the UK, playing a vital role in pollination and the health of our ecosystems. With over 250 species found across Britain, they are far more diverse than many people realise, ranging from familiar garden visitors to lesser-known solitary species. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions when bees are discovered on your property.
Key Takeaways
- British bees are essential pollinators that support plants, crops and biodiversity.
- The main UK groups are honey bees, bumblebees and solitary bees.
- Bee nests should be assessed carefully and not removed without professional advice.
Common Types of Bees in the UK
Broadly speaking, UK bees fall into three main groups:
- honey bees
- bumblebees
- and solitary bees.
The Honey Bee is the most recognisable species. Typically managed by beekeepers, they live in large colonies that can number in the tens of thousands. Honey bees are highly organised and are crucial for commercial pollination, although truly wild colonies are now rare in the UK .
Bumblebee species are larger, rounder and often brightly coloured. There are around 24 species in Britain, and they live in smaller colonies, often nesting underground or in sheltered spaces like sheds or bird boxes. They are generally docile and rarely sting unless provoked.
Finally, the majority of UK bees are Solitary Bees, including mason, mining and leafcutter bees. Unlike social species, they do not form colonies. Each female builds her own nest, often in soil, brickwork or wood. Despite their small size, they are incredibly efficient pollinators and make up around 90% of UK bee species.
Why Bees Matter
Bees are essential pollinators, transferring pollen between flowers as they feed on nectar.
This process supports the reproduction of wild plants and crops alike. In fact, it is estimated that around a third of the food we eat depends on pollinators such as bees.
Beyond agriculture, bees also support biodiversity. Healthy bee populations contribute to thriving ecosystems, benefiting birds, mammals and other insects. However, habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change are placing increasing pressure on many species.
What to Do if You Find Bees Nesting in or Around Your Property
In many cases, bees pose little risk and should be left undisturbed. Bumblebee nests, for example, are temporary and naturally die out by late summer. Solitary bees are even less intrusive and rarely sting.
However, problems can arise if bees establish nests in wall cavities, lofts or high-traffic areas. In these situations, it is important to avoid DIY removal, as this can harm both the bees and the property.
Professional, Responsible Solutions
At Avon Pest Control, we understand the importance of balancing safety with environmental responsibility. Our trained technicians can correctly identify bee species and advise on the most appropriate course of action, whether that’s leaving them in place, arranging safe relocation, or implementing preventative measures.
If you’ve discovered bees on your property and aren’t sure what to do, contact Avon Pest Control today for expert advice, and let us take care of your bee problem for you.