Bees in Perth WA
Bees may be small, but they play a massive role in our environment. Without them, there wouldn’t be much environment to speak of and we would start to live in one of those apocalypse landscapes you see in the movies. No bees > less pollination > less plants and trees > biodiversity crumbles.
But, in saying that; when a swarm settles too close to your home, business or a public space, they can pose a serious safety risk – especially to families with children or anyone allergic to bee stings. Business owners and public venues can face liability issues if visitors or employees are stung or attacked. Plus, large beehives near buildings can cause damage or block access points and entryways. At Budget Pest Control, we understand both the importance of protecting local bee populations while balancing the need to keep yourself and your property safe.
What Are Bees?
Bees are flying insects related to wasps and ants, recognised for their crucial role in pollination and, in some species, the production of honey, wax, and propolis. They live in structured colonies consisting of:
- A queen bee – the reproductive centre of the hive
- Worker bees – responsible for foraging, hive building, and caring for larvae
- Drones – male bees whose primary role is reproduction
Bees contribute significantly to Western Australia’s biodiversity by pollinating native plants, crops, and gardens. While generally non-aggressive, bees will defend their hive if they perceive a threat, which is why professional management is essential when they settle too close to people or pets.
For more information on bites and stings, click here
Common Types of Bees in Perth, Australia
There are over 20,000 species of bees worldwide and Australia offers a selection of more than 2,000 over our vast country. Perth’s warm Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal environment for a variety of bee species. The most commonly spotted include:
European Honey Bees (Apis mellifera)
The most common species requiring beehive removal Perth. They build large waxy hives and can be quite protective of their colony.
Description:
- Highly social and hive-building
- Common in walls, roof spaces, sheds and trees
- The primary species responsible for swarms around Perth
Behaviour:
- Forms large colonies in roofs, walls, sheds, and trees
- Frequently swarms in warm weather
- Can become defensive when disturbed
Damage:
- Stings can trigger severe allergic reactions
- Hives cause structural damage and honey/wax leakage
- Increased bee traffic can pose safety risks
Control:
- Do not disturb or block hive entry points until no longer active
- Engage professional bee removal or exterminator experts
- Early treatment prevents hive expansion
Native Australian Stingless Bees
Small, gentle bees native to Australia. They cannot sting, produce a mild honey, and are valuable pollinators that rarely require removal.
Description:
- Tiny (3–4 mm), dark-coloured bees
- Cannot sting and produce mild honey
Behaviour:
- Form small, gentle colonies
- Important pollinators of native flora
Damage:
- Minimal — no safety threat
- Rarely cause structural issues
Control:
- Usually no action needed
- Relocate via a native beekeeper if required
- Seal small gaps to prevent nesting
Blue-banded Bees (Amegilla spp.)
Important native pollinators with striking blue stripes. These solitary bees do not form hives and are generally harmless.
Description:
- Medium-sized bees with bright blue stripes
- Solitary and commonly found in gardens
Behaviour:
- Do not form hives or colonies
- Nest individually in sandy or soft soil
- Highly effective garden pollinators
Damage:
- Very low risk to people and pets
- Small soil burrows but no structural impact
Control:
- No treatment usually required
- Avoid disturbing nesting sites in garden beds
Signs You May Need to Call in the Professionals
Although bees are essential for ecosystems, their presence too close to homes, workplaces, or public areas can become a serious safety issue. Signs you may have a nest nearby include:
- A swarm gathering on fences, trees, or outdoor structures
- Constant bee traffic in and out of roof gaps or wall cavities
- Buzzing noises behind walls
- A visible hive on your property
Attempting DIY removal is dangerous and can aggravate the colony. Professional handling ensures both safety and effectiveness.
We Prioritise Removal Over Extermination
Bees are vital pollinators for Western Australia’s food production and native ecosystems. Extermination should be used as a last resort, ensuring you stay safe while protecting the broader environment.
Whenever possible, we recommend local beekeepers to:
- Remove swarms
- Extract hives from accessible areas
- Relocate bees to managed apiaries
- Protect the local bee population
For a local bee swarm/hive collector near you, check out the list kindly compiled by the Western Australian Apiarists Society (WAAS) – https://waas.org.au/swarms
Bee Hive Extermination (When Removal Isn’t Possible)
While humane bee relocation is always our first choice, there are situations where relocation is unsafe or impossible. In these cases, professional extermination may be required to protect people, pets, or property; which is where our team at Budget Pest Control comes in.
Extermination may be necessary when:
- The hive is deep inside inaccessible cavities
- The colony is highly aggressive
- There is an immediate safety threat
- The structure around the hive is compromised or unsafe
- Removal attempts would cause significant structural damage
- The hive compromises electrical, ventilation or plumbing systems
Our licensed technicians use approved, targeted treatments while minimising environmental impact. We follow all Western Australian guidelines to ensure bee management is carried out responsibly and ethically. Let us know when the bees first appeared and where the hive is located so we can arrive with the correct equipment for efficient beehive treatment.
After Beehive Removal or Extermination
After treatment:
- Inspect the area 24–48 hours later to allow remaining bees to disperse
- Wear shoes and gloves, as dead bees can still sting
- Clean the area carefully and discard dead bees
- Seal the entry point if possible
- Spray vinegar to disrupt pheromones and prevent new colonies from returning
This prevents reinfestation and ensures long-term protection.
How to Prevent Bees from Nesting on Your Property
To make your home less appealing to future swarms:
- Seal gaps and openings around roofs and walls
- Trim flowering plants near structures
- Install mesh on vents, chimneys, and weep holes
- Maintain clean outdoor areas free of sugary substances
- Inspect sheds, eaves, and cavities regularly
Bees may choose unpredictable spots, but prevention reduces the likelihood of them moving in.
Call Perth’s Trusted Bee Treatment Experts
Whether you’re dealing with a single swarm, a large hive, or ongoing bee problems, our team has the tools, training, and experience to help.
Call (08) 9470 6766 or email us info@budgetpest.com.au today for fast and professional services in Perth WA!
