How to Catch a Wild Swarm of Honey Bees (Step-by-Step Guide)

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Have you ever spotted a wild swarm of honey bees clustered on a tree branch or fence post and wondered what it would be like to catch it? Swarm catching can be one of the most thrilling and rewarding parts of beekeeping—like a treasure hunt in your own backyard. If you’re just getting started, or you’ve always wanted to try catching a swarm but felt unsure where to begin, this guide is for you.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, explain the best times and places to look, and share the tools I personally use—including my favorite swarm-catching spray that I never go without during swarm season.

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What Is a Swarm and Why Do Bees Swarm?

A swarm is a natural part of a honey bee colony’s reproductive cycle. When a hive becomes overcrowded, the old queen and about half of the worker bees leave to find a new home. This is what we call a “swarm.” They usually land somewhere temporarily—like a tree branch—while scout bees go out looking for a permanent location.

This temporary pause is your golden opportunity to catch them!

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When Is Swarm Season?

Swarm season typically begins in early spring and can last through midsummer, depending on your climate. In most areas of the U.S., April through June are prime months.

The best time of day to look for swarms is late morning to mid-afternoon, when bees are most active.

What You’ll Need to Catch a Swarm

Before you attempt to catch a swarm, gather the following supplies:

1. Protective gear – Even though swarming bees are usually very docile, it’s best to wear a veil, gloves, and light-colored clothing.
2. A sturdy box or bee hive – A ventilated cardboard box, nuc box, or full hive body with frames will work.
3. Pruners or a saw – For cutting branches if needed.
4. Ladder – For high-up swarms. Safety first!
5. Swarm-catching spray – My go-to is Swarm Commander, a powerful lure that mimics the scent of a queen bee. It draws scout bees like a magnet.
6. Sheet or tarp – To catch any falling bees and make cleanup easier.
7. Bee brush or soft feather – For gently moving bees.

Affiliate Note: I personally use and recommend Swarm Commander, and this post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the work I do!

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Step-by-Step: How to Catch a Swarm

Step 1: Assess the Situation

When you spot a swarm, the first thing to do is stay calm and observe. Look at the size of the swarm, the height, and where it’s hanging. If it’s up high, you’ll need a ladder or pole-mounted collection device. If it’s within arm’s reach, you’re in luck!

Make sure you have permission if the swarm is on someone else’s property, and always consider your safety first.

Step 2: Prepare Your Equipment

Before you touch the swarm, lay out your sheet or tarp underneath the cluster. Open your collection box or hive and spray a few pumps of Swarm Commander inside. Let it sit for a minute or two—this gives the bees a head start on “smelling” the queen-like pheromones and deciding your box looks like home.

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Step 3: Collect the Swarm

There are a few ways to collect a swarm, depending on how accessible it is:

• If it’s hanging low on a branch: Hold your box directly under the cluster and give the branch a firm shake. The bees should fall right in. Quickly close the lid or gently place the box on the ground so bees can fan and regroup.
• If it’s high up: You may need a pole with a bucket or box taped to the end. Position the container under the swarm and knock it loose.
• If it’s on a flat surface: Use your bee brush to gently coax them into the container.

Step 4: Let the Bees Settle

After you’ve collected the main cluster, leave the box open for about 30–60 minutes. This gives the remaining bees (including scout bees returning from the field) a chance to smell the lure and join the others. If the queen is inside, the rest will follow her scent.

Watch for bees standing at the entrance and fanning their wings—this is a sign they’re calling the others to come in, which means you caught the queen!

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Step 5: Transport the Swarm to Its New Home

Once the majority of the bees have moved into your box, gently secure the lid and transport them to their new hive location. It’s best to place them in a prepared hive with drawn comb if possible, and keep them cool and shaded during transport.