Pest Education • DFW Pest Control
Bees in DFW: What to Know
Honey bees are vital pollinators that should be protected and relocated, not exterminated. Learn how to handle swarms and carpenter bees.
Reviewed and updated June 2026
At a Glance
Honey bees should be relocated by a beekeeper, not killed. Carpenter bees that bore into wood are a different, structural pest issue.
Quick Facts
- Honey bees: Beneficial pollinators; relocate, don't exterminate
- Swarms: Usually temporary; call a beekeeper
- Carpenter bees: Bore into wood; a structural pest
- Concern: Protect pollinators; act safely
Protect Honey Bees
Honey bees are essential pollinators, and our approach is to protect them. A swarm clustered on a branch or fence is usually temporary, resting while scouts look for a new home, and will often move on within a day or two.
If honey bees have established a hive in a wall or structure, the right call is a beekeeper or bee-removal specialist who can relocate the colony, rather than extermination. We are glad to point you toward live-removal resources.
Carpenter Bees Are Different
Not every bee should be left alone. Carpenter bees are large, mostly black bees that bore round holes into wood eaves, decks, and trim to nest, and over years they can cause real damage.
- Look for round, dime-sized holes and sawdust below wood trim and eaves.
- Carpenter bees are a structural pest we can help address, unlike honey bees.
- Painted or sealed wood is far less attractive to them.
- Never seal an active honey bee colony into a wall; have it removed live instead.
Treatments are selected and applied per their labels. Tell us about children, pets, edible gardens, beehives, and other sensitive areas before service, and follow all preparation and re-entry instructions. More on pet- and pollinator-conscious treatment →
Common Questions
Do you exterminate honey bees?
No. Honey bees are protected pollinators. We recommend relocation by a beekeeper or bee-removal specialist rather than extermination, and we can point you toward live-removal resources.
There's a swarm in my yard. What should I do?
A resting swarm is usually temporary and not aggressive. Keep your distance and contact a local beekeeper; it will often move on within a day or two on its own.
Are carpenter bees the same as honey bees?
No. Carpenter bees bore into wood to nest and can damage structures. They are a pest-control matter, while honey bees should be protected and relocated.
Sources & Further Reading
Guidance changes over time. Follow current product labels and local recommendations. This page is educational and is not medical advice.
Have a Bee or Pest Question?
Call or email for a free estimate. We’ll recommend an approach that fits your property.