Basketball-sized beehive takes over balcony -- but resident decides to leave it
Poong Qi Tao
TNP
February 13, 2025
A private homeowner has decided to let a large beehive remain on her balcony, despite its growth to the size of a basketball.
After consulting a bee conservation expert, she opted not to remove it, believing the bees pose no harm.
A video posted on the Singapore Wildlife Sightings Facebook page showed a dense swarm of bees clustered on a tree branch.
The concerned resident who uploaded the footage mentioned that the bees appeared highly active and speculated they might be preparing to relocate.
Based on earlier posts by the same resident, the hive was first spotted on Dec 14 last year, when it was about half its current size.
Initially worried, they sought advice from Nutrinest, a company specialising in bee removal and conservation.
Bee conservationist Tan Zhiyong, who runs Nutrinest, confirmed with Shin Min Daily News that the resident had contacted him on Oct 14, requesting the hive's removal.
Mr Xavier Tan removing a beehive at a HDB corridor. PHOTO: SHIN MIN DAILY NEWS
However, after assessing the situation, he reassured her that the bees were Apis Florea, a species known for its nomadic behaviour and non-aggressive nature.
"These bees don't sting unless provoked," the 57-year-old explained. "They naturally relocate after some time, moving to a more suitable environment."
Mr Tan emphasised the importance of bees in the ecosystem and encouraged people to overcome their fear and misconceptions.
He believes that greater understanding can lead to peaceful coexistence with these vital pollinators.
At first, the homeowner was frightened and wanted the hive removed. But after learning that the bees were harmless and unlikely to cause problems, she decided to leave them alone.
Mr Tan visited the home again on Jan 27 to check on the hive, and noted that the homeowner had grown more accepting but felt some concern due to the hive's increasing size.
"After my visit, I assured her that the bees were thriving and there was no immediate danger. In the end, we agreed that removing the hive wasn't necessary," he said.
