With temperatures trending toward the warmer side as spring stretches on, hibernating bees are beginning to wake up. As usual, some of them are swarming on structures or trees too close for some people’s comfort.
That’s where Ethel resident Rob Jenkins, owner of Bee Wrangler Honey, steps in to help. Jenkins — along with other Lewis County beekeepers he partners with — are offering to help remove and rehome the bees free of charge.
The Chronicle reached out to Jenkins to find out more about his service.
“I love to get the word out and try to educate people. A swarm of bees, when they’re out clustered on a tree limb or something, they’re pretty much harmless if you don’t disturb them,” Jenkins said. “They’re just looking for a new home, trying to survive. A lot of people get freaked out about it and kind of panic because they don’t know any better.”
Should someone encounter a swarm of bees — whether they are swarming on the branch of a tree or on a building or structure — Jenkins said the bees should be left alone if they are to be removed.
“Please do not disturb them. Don’t spray them with anything, not even water,” Jenkins added.
Instead, call or text Jenkins at 360-219-3092 to arrange a swarm removal. Jenkins — with his fellow local beekeepers — will arrange a time and date to remove and rehome the bees.
Jenkins and his partners only deal with honey bees and bumblebees, not hornets or wasps.
Bee Wrangler Honey also produces various beeswax and bee pollen products along with honey. Jenkins can be found selling these products at various Lewis County farmers markets throughout the year.
To find out what market he’ll be at next, follow Bee Wrangler Honey on Facebook at https://bit.ly/3xRUYiT.
