A growing number of residents are facing a buzzing challenge – bees have taken up residence in drains, manholes and water meters, forming hives and creating access and safety concerns across the neighbourhoods.

In some cases, bee hives inside water meters, a sticky situation for residents and maintenance workers, are responsible for leaks, disrupted maintenance access and even damaged infrastructure, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.

With no quick solution in sight, some residents have resorted to harming them, a move that has backfired, making the bees more aggressive and defensive.

“It’s like they’re taking over our neighbourhood,” said Maria Rodriguez, a Mulbarton resident.

“I’ve seen them buzzing around the water meters, and it’s just a matter of time before someone gets stung. We need a solution that doesn’t involve harming them, but it’s getting harder to co-exist with these busy bees.”

The presence of bee colonies in utility areas presents a unique challenge. Not only do the hives pose a risk to technicians and homeowners, but improper removal efforts can also endanger the bees, who are critical pollinators in local ecosystems.

Safe solutions for residents

Residents should avoid disturbing the bees and follow these safety guidelines:

• Do not attempt removal yourself: Contact a professional bee removal service instead;

• Wear protective clothing if approaching the area. Long sleeves, gloves and face protection are essential;

Avoid pesticides: Chemicals can worsen the problem and harm local pollinators;

Seal entry points after hive removal to prevent re-infestation.

Living with bees – the right way

To safely co-exist with bees, consider these actions:

• Call a professional: For Glenvista and Mulbarton, contact Lohann on 076 796 3121 for bee removal and relocation services;

• Keep your distance: Do not disturb visible swarms or hives;

• Support bee conservation: Encourage the creation of safe, alternative habitats for bees to keep them away from urban infrastructure.

With a growing awareness of the importance of bees, the community is encouraged to act responsibly and compassionately, prioritising safety while protecting these essential insects.