Bees have taken over my nesting box!

[elliek1]

I have 4 nesting boxes in trees in my yard and one was taken over by bees last year. Ok, they needed a place, so I left it alone. This year, 2 nesting boxes were inhabited by squirrels and at least one produced babies. But THAT ONE is now swarming with bees. Any advice about what to do, if anything? I assume the squirrels won't be foolish enough to come back to re-nest, which concerns me for their safety, but is there any way to get the bees out... JUST started in the past few days to preserve it for the squirrels?

[lennysmom]

I had this happen to me last year and one of my squirrels actually got stung.:( Upon investigation, I discovered they were honey bees, so I didn't want to hurt them, especially since they are endangered. I called a local beekeeper and they were more then happy to come and collect the bees free of charge. Of course they had to take the box down, but after relocating the colony to one of their boxes, they brought my box back. If your issue is indeed honeybees, this might work for you.

Additionally, I discovered that almond oil is a deterrent for bees, so after the box was vacated, I rubbed some almond oil along the rim of the box and all inside of the roof. I have not had another issue since.:)