How to Keep Bees Out of Birdhouses

Last Updated: September 2, 2021

Have you got bees surrounding your birdhouse? In Australia, it's very common for feral bees to nest in Possum Boxes, which are similar to birdhouses. Similarly, bees like compost bins. Removing the bees is the first job, but this is better left to someone who is licensed to use chemicals safely. Here's how to deter them from coming back to a birdhouse (or settling there in the first place).

Steps

1
Remove the existing bees first, with professional help. The sensible thing is for the bees to be first eliminated by dusting with Permethrin powder propelled at high pressure.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Chikezie Onyianta
Pest Control Specialist
Expert Interview. 1 April 2021.}
2
Clean the birdhouse or possum box. Once the removal is done, and the bees have died off safely, take down the box, and either clean it with boiling water or some solvents.

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3
Dry the box. It's a good idea to leave the insides exposed to the sun for a while.
4
Decide if you really want to put it back.
5
Consider painting the box. If possible, paint the inside of the box with an oil-based paint so the odour masks the bee scent.
6
Cut another hole in the box. Before returning the box, ensure that you cut a second large hole in the back of the box so there is less chance that the bees can control the air flow inside the box. This will not affect birds or possums, but it will certainly make the box less appealing to bees.
7
Reinstall the box. If you do want to put the box back, ensure that you have removed all trace of the previous infestation.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I keep bees from going in a bird house where they have built hives in the past?

Amy Harrison

Top Answerer

If this is a common occurrence, then perhaps relocate the bird house.
Question

I was told there is a natural cure for keeping bees out of bird houses that birds don't mind. It could be herbal, I don't know. Any ideas?

Community Answer

Try using vinegar, as they do not like the smell and it is also perfectly safe for birds. Also, one or two small holes can help because the bees cannot control the temperature of the nest as well. If they already started building a nest inside, you should get rid of it. If there is a bird nest inside with eggs or chicks, you should wait until they are old enough to leave before you clean the bird house so you don't traumatize the parents or scare them away. Same for putting holes in.
Question

How can we combat bees in the roof of our living house?

Amy Harrison

Top Answerer

Visit the wikiHow article How to Remove Bees for further information.