swarm-list Mailing List: Re: Extraction from PG&E pole in San Leandro

[Robin Chatham (angel2020connect]

Oh ya. Hang hive box so bees exiting cone go into hive. 

On Thu, Aug 27, 2026, 8:32 PM Robin Chatham <angel2020connect [at] gmail.com> wrote:

I would make long ropes of steel wool to line all edges but one opening.  I use 3"-4" tape to keep steel wool in place. Maybe even staple tape onto wooden pole. Also make a cone out of #8 wire so they come out and can't figure out how to get back in since they smell home through the cone and not just the tip / exit.

I hope someone does it. Film it for me and I'll post on my YouTube channel Keeper Of The Wild Bees. 

Best wishes.

On Thu, Aug 27, 2026, 7:11 PM Gerald Przybylski via swarm-list <swarm-list [at] alamedabees.org> wrote:

hmmm 
I've heard of one other case where an Oakland beek tried to "trap-out" a colony from a utility pole in their neighborhood. 
It didn't go well.  
It turned out to be impossible to meet the requirement of closing off all the alternate exits, and force the 
bees to only use the screen-cone.  
After weeks, she gave up. 

Good luck 

That's my 2¢

On 8/27/26 6:14 PM, Pamela Weimer via swarm-list wrote:

If anyone is interested in trying a trap out of a swarm that has been established for a few weeks in the metal shrouding around a pole that is to be replaced by a new pole (tethered together for support) our caller would be greatly appreciative.  I have given advice on creating a barrier so bees exit in another direction and suggested if the bees are not a bother (she says they are very docile) then leave them alone and there is a good chance they will not be around after winter.  I also suggested she reach out to Vector Control to see if they have pull with PG&E as she is getting nowhere with PG&E since the pole in question will eventually be removed she hoped for early action due to the bees.  Nice lady

Zlatka Draganova

(415) 606-5466

Location of the pole is corner of Barbara and Whelam Ave in San Leandro but Zlatka address is nearby  at 2029 Thombas Ave.

--

Pamela Weimer

(510) 390-6291

Urban Beekeeper

Retired Teacher and Coach

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