Structural Beehive Removal

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BeeCal Pest Management locates beehives on your property using a combination of experience, specialized tools, and observational techniques. The process often begins with a visual inspection, where our technicians observe bee flight paths and look for signs like bees entering small openings in walls, eaves, or rooflines. Stains or wax residue on walls or ceilings can also indicate hive activity inside. To confirm the hive’s location without causing unnecessary damage, we may use tools such as thermal imaging cameras to detect the heat signature of clustered bees, or a borescope—a small, flexible camera that can be inserted into wall voids for visual confirmation. Acoustic tools like stethoscopes or electronic listening devices are also used to detect the buzzing of a hidden hive. By tapping on surfaces and listening for hollow sounds, our team can further pinpoint the hive’s location.

Once the hive’s position is confirmed, we strategically open the structure—such as stucco, drywall, siding, or roofing—only in the area needed to access the colony. This is done using tools like oscillating saws, pry bars, or drills, depending on the material. Safety precautions are always taken to protect electrical wiring, plumbing, and structural elements.

Once the hive is exposed, BeeCal Pest Management carefully and systematically removes the bees using humane and professional methods. The process typically begins by locating and capturing the queen, as her removal helps calm the colony and encourages worker bees to follow. A specialized bee vacuum is then used to gently collect the bees. This vacuum is designed with soft interiors and adjustable suction to avoid harming the bees during collection.

Throughout the process, smoke may be used to keep the bees calm and reduce defensive behavior. If live removal is not possible due to the hive's condition or level of aggression, a targeted and legal treatment may be applied as a last resort.

Once the bees have been safely removed, BeeCal Pest Management proceeds with the thorough removal of the honeycomb and hive debris. This step is critical to prevent structural damage, pest infestations, and future bee reinfestation. First, all exposed honeycomb is carefully cut and scraped out from the cavity using hand tools such as scrapers, putty knives, or hive tools. Technicians work meticulously to ensure all wax, comb, honey, and brood (bee larvae) are completely removed from the structure.

After the bulk of the debris is extracted, the cavity is cleaned and wiped down to remove any residual honey or wax. A shop vacuum may also be used to collect small particles and ensure no remnants are left behind.

Pheromones left behind by bees are removed through a multi-step process designed to eliminate the chemical scent trails that attract future swarms. After the hive and honeycomb are physically removed, BeeCal Pest Management applies a pheromone-destroying enzyme treatment directly to the exposed cavity and surrounding surfaces. These enzyme-based products are specifically formulated to break down the organic compounds in bee pheromones, neutralizing their scent at the molecular level.

Technicians thoroughly spray or wipe down all areas where bees or comb were present, including wall studs, insulation, and any stained or honey-coated surfaces. In some cases, after the enzyme treatment, a sealing or odor-blocking paint is applied to encapsulate any remaining traces and further prevent bees from detecting the former hive location. This combined approach of removal, enzyme neutralization, and sealing ensures long-term prevention and helps eliminate the risk of future infestations.

After a hive removal, BeeCal Pest Management restores the affected area through a professional, step-by-step repair process to return your property to a safe and clean condition. Once the hive, honeycomb, and debris are removed and the cavity has been treated with pheromone-neutralizing enzymes, the structural repair begins.

First, insulation is installed into the exposed cavity to restore thermal protection and block potential reentry. Then, the opened section—whether it’s drywall, stucco, siding, or roofing—is patched using materials that match the original surface as closely as possible. For drywall, this includes cutting a new panel to fit, taping and mudding the seams, and sanding it smooth. For stucco or exterior finishes, a matching texture and base coat are applied before sealing.

Finally, the repair is completed to a paint-ready finish, meaning it’s primed and prepared for the homeowner or a painting contractor to apply final paint for a seamless restoration. Our goal is to leave the area fully sealed, structurally sound, and visually consistent with the rest of the property.