Swarm Calls

See a Swarm?

Honey bee swarms are a natural part of colony reproduction. If you see a cluster of bees hanging from a tree branch, fence post, or structure, don't panic! Swarming bees are generally docile and are just looking for a new home.

A honey bee swarm on a tree

Swarm cluster on a branch

Report a Swarm

Use our swarm reporting system to alert local beekeepers who can safely collect the swarm:

Report a Swarm on SwarmReport.org

CGBA is registered with SwarmReport to coordinate swarm pickups throughout the Columbia Gorge area.

⚠️ Know the Difference!

✅ Honey Bee

Fuzzy, round body, gentle

❌ Yellow Jacket

Smooth, narrow waist, aggressive

Yellow jackets and wasps are not honey bees. They build nests in the ground or walls and are not managed by beekeepers. If you have yellow jackets, please contact a pest control service. Our swarm collectors only handle honey bee swarms.

Want to Collect Swarms?

If you're a CGBA member interested in being on the swarm call list, you'll need:

Current CGBA membership
Experience handling swarms (or willingness to go with a mentor)
Registration with SwarmReport — details available in the members area

Swarm Season

In the Gorge, swarm season typically runs April through June, with peak activity in May. Be ready!