Honey Bee Removal from a Shingled Wall | Kansas City, MO

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City: Kansas City, MO

Neighborhood: Waldo

Property Type: Residential Home

Insect Type: Honey bees, which often necessitate bee abatement services to handle infestations, especially when dealing with issues like shingled wall infestation.

The homeowner noticed honey bees entering the home and observed them using a woodpecker hole in the shingled wall, indicating a potential shingled wall infestation. The immediate concern was the stinging hazard to the homeowner. Additionally, there was a risk that honey and comb left inside the wall could lead to secondary problems if the colony died, attracting pests like wax moths, ants, mice, and other insects. The homeowner was also worried about local building-code requirements regarding bee abatement services necessary for colonies established inside walls, fearing the possibility of receiving a citation from the building-code administrator.

The colony was located by visually observing the honey bees entering the woodpecker hole and assessing the home's construction, especially in areas prone to shingled wall infestation, prompting the need for effective bee abatement services.

Approximately 150 pounds of very old honeycomb, indicative of a shingled wall infestation, was removed. The golden-brown and very dark brown coloring suggested that the colony had been established for a significant period of time. The colony was healthy and thriving, with an abundance of active brood. Honeycomb extended through the wall cavity over two floors, highlighting the need for professional bee abatement services.

The homeowner was working with a limited budget, so we took extra care to remove the shingles from the shingled wall infestation without damaging them whenever possible. Any shingles that did break were nailed back into place. Caulk and touch-up paint were then used to help conceal minor blemishes from the removal. The shingles were cut along the seam between the wall and window to break the existing caulk seal. They were then carefully peeled back to expose the stud wall and the colony. The nest material, along with the live honey bees, were removed as part of our comprehensive bee abatement services. A 28-foot adjustable-leg ladder and a 14-foot fixed ladder were used to safely access the work area. A specialized bee vacuum was utilized to collect the live bees.

The honeycomb, honey, and brood were completely removed while keeping the colony alive for relocation as part of our bee abatement services. To address the shingled wall infestation, the wall void was filled with fiberglass insulation to help prevent another colony from rebuilding in the same space. This was appropriate because the area should remain protected from water intrusion after the wall repairs were completed.

The shingles were nailed back into place to address the shingled wall infestation. The cut lines were caulked, and touch-up paint was applied to the immediate area, restoring the appearance of the siding while also preventing further issues that could require bee abatement services.

The honey bee colony was successfully relocated through our professional bee abatement services. Since the removal, there has been no known recurrence of a honey bee colony in the home, particularly around the previously affected shingled wall, ensuring a pest-free environment.

Repairing and properly sealing woodpecker holes and other openings in exterior siding is a crucial first defense against honey bees and other insects that may enter a home. If you notice honey bees repeatedly accessing a particular opening in your siding, it is advisable to investigate the source rather than simply sealing the hole. Sealing an active colony inside the wall can lead to a shingled wall infestation, leaving behind honeycomb, honey, and brood. To effectively address these issues, consider utilizing professional bee abatement services.

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