Who you need to contact
We don’t offer a service to remove bees or wasp nests.
If you have problems with a nest you need to contact a pest controller.
Find a list of pest controllers in the JT directory.
Bees nests
Bees build their nests in different places depending on the species. It can be in:
- the ground
- the roof
- solid structures such as a wall
If you have a bee nest, you’ll see the bees regularly coming and going from the nest.
You don’t always have to destroy the nest. In some cases, you can remove it. This is rare and it usually harms the bees. You should contact a pest controller for advice.
If you think it’s a honeybee nest, you may be able to get advice from Jersey Beekeepers' Association.
Honeybees and swarms
Honeybees are important pollinators.
Their nests can have thousands of bees. You can often see large numbers around the entrance. Wild colonies of honeybees are found in cavities such as hollow trees, chimneys and roof cavities.
Colonies can swarm in April, May, June and July. This is when the colony splits. A queen bee and several thousand worker bees will leave and look for a new nesting site.
While scout bees look for a new site, the swarm can:
- settle in tree, bush or on another structure
- hang as a football sized cluster of bees
When the swarm is flying, seeing thousands of bees in the air can be alarming. To stay safe, move away or go indoors and close all windows.
You should also call the Jersey Beekeepers Association swarm coordinators:
- for the west Island call Richard Plaster on +44 (0) 7797 849453
- for the east Island call Mike Aubert on +44 (0) 7802 422880
- for the centre Island call Emma Paul on +44 (0) 7797 911165
If you don’t speak to someone using one number, try another.
The coordinators may be able to arrange for a volunteer local beekeeper to go to the site and remove the swarm to a new home.
Bumble bees
These are the largest of the bees and usually nest in the ground or in places such as compost heaps.
Generally, they are not aggressive but they can sting. They may be aggressive around the nest entrance.
It is usually difficult to remove their nests and it usually harms the colony. The nests are seasonal so you should consider if removing the nest can wait until early winter.
Mason or mining bees
You can see these types of bees entering many holes in the ground or in mortar.
They are often called solitary bees because they don’t make large nests. However, many bees can come together at one site.
They can’t sting and are usually short-lived. These bees are also important pollinators so should be left alone.
Wasp nests
Wasps start their nest in spring and expand it in strength and size until September.
You can find nests in:
- the ground
- hedges or shrubs
- buildings
If you think you have a wasp nest, look for wasps going in and out of a single entrance hole every 2 to 4 seconds.
Contact a pest controller if you find a wasp nest and you think it’s dangerous. Do not disturb the nest. The wasps can become very aggressive.
If you’re working outside, you should check the area for wasps or nests before starting the work. Contact a pest controller if you see anything you’re not sure about.
Queen wasps hibernate in winter in a dry sheltered place. They can sometimes hibernate inside. Generally, queen wasps present little risk to humans.
Wasp stings
You usually don’t get stung by wasps in spring or early summer, unless you disturb a nest. But in autumn, wasps eat fermented overripe fruits which gets them drunk. They can become very dangerous and aggressive and are most likely to sting.
European hornets
European hornets are native to Jersey.
They are often confused with Asian hornets, but they are not an invasive species.
European hornets can sting and their nests should never be disturbed.
If you see a nest and are concerned about the risks to humans, you should inform the landowner. Your Parish Hall may be able to help you do this.
We don’t deal with European hornets’ nests.
Asian hornet nests
Asian hornet nests can look very similar to wasp nests in springtime. The way to differentiate them is to identify the insects building and maintaining the nest.
You should never disturb an Asian hornet nest, as the insects can become very aggressive and defend their nest vigorously.
Find more information on Asian hornet sightings and reporting.
Dealing with a sting from a bee, wasp or hornet
Immediately move to a place of safety if you’re stung. If you are close to the nest, one sting can lead to an aggressive reaction by more bees, wasps or hornets.
You should:
- apply a cold compress or ice pack to the sting site
- elevate the sting area if possible
- avoid scratching
A sting will usually cause a red, swollen lump. This may be painful and itchy, but symptoms should improve within a few hours to a few days
Some people have a mild allergic reaction. A larger area around the sting may become swollen and painful.
Ask your pharmacist about painkillers, anti-itching creams and antihistamines.
Always seek medical advice if:
- the sting is in the mouth, throat or near the eyes
- fever, swollen glands for flu-like symptoms develop
- symptoms don't improve or get worse
Serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that happens very quickly. It can be caused by:
- insect stings
- food
- medicine
It’s a serious condition and needs to be treated in hospital immediately.
Find symptoms and how to deal with anaphylaxis on NHS.
gov.je