I'm sure many expect this to be a morals rant or a Save the Bees plea, but it is not. I'm not saying there isn't a morals argument, or that we shouldn't do everything possible to save the honeybee, quite contrary. I just want to give the "reality" side to such an endeavor that will speak louder to those who would choose the cheaper cost over the moral conundrum.
Despite the general public grouping all stinging flying insects into the bee bucket, Bees, wasps, and hornets are very different. Bees are herbivores and live purely on the on the nutrients from plants. Wasp and hornets are carnivores and primarily feed on other insects.
The biggest difference between honeybees and other stinging flying insects (including other bees), is that they do not die off or hibernate during winter. Honeybees remain alive and active all year long. In colder climates they cluster close together and consume honey to keep from freezing. This means they need to store away substantial amount of food for this period. In really cold climates, this could be up to 6 months.
This stored honey is often overlooked when someone attempts to eradicate a honeybee colony from the wall or ceiling of their home. Honeybees protect their honey stores and maintain the conditions that keep they honey safe. Without bees to care for the stores, the hygroscopic properties of honey (water absorbing) causes it to ferment and soak into the walls, it is next to impossible to paint over such a stain, and in most cases requires replacement. There can easily be 5 gallons or more of honey in a thriving nest.
Because they live through the winter, they have a larger population in spring to grow from and therefore are much larger in population than a wasp or hornets nest during the summer/fall. This is why attempting to seal the bees in the wall to die, which usually just causes them to find a way into the house, or poisoning them is not recommended. The dead brood, dead bees, pollen, honey and wax will start to smell and potentially draw pests such as mice, beetles, moths, and roaches.
Here is a video from my good friend JP the beeman that shows the damage that can be done to a dwelling if honeybees are not handled properly.
If you do have honeybees in a wall or ceiling, the best way to safely remove them is by physically opening up the cavity and cutting out the combs and bees. This method also allows the bees to be saved and relocated to beehive. Any reputable exterminate will refer you to a beekeeper or nuisance wildlife remover who handles honeybees. DON'T let an exterminator poison honeybees in your house.
Beekeep On!
