What do you do when a truck carrying millions of bees flips over near the Canadian border?
If you’re in Whatcom County, Washington, you call in the experts—and then some serious buzz begins.
On Friday, a lorry hauling about 31,750 kilograms of active honey bee hives overturned, unleashing a swarm that sent authorities scrambling.
At first, officials warned the public to steer clear of the area, fearing a massive swarm.
Initial reports estimated 250 million bees on the loose! But thanks to quick info from the master beekeepers who showed up to help, the real number was closer to 14 million.
“The goal is to save as many bees as possible,” the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office explained.
What’s The Plan?
Let the bees find their queen and re-hive naturally, ideally within 24 to 48 hours.
Over two dozen local beekeepers pitched in, working tirelessly to coax the buzzing masses back home.
“By morning, most bees should have returned to their hives,” the sheriff’s office reassured on Facebook.
Why the fuss over a bee spill?
Beyond honey, many beekeepers rent their hives to farmers for pollination.
Losing these bees isn’t just sticky, it could sting local crops too.
