Bees and Wasps

Bees

Bees are essential to maintain both our ecosystems and food production systems. One in every three bites of food we eat is courtesy of insect pollination. Equally important, 85% of flowering plants and trees rely on pollinators for the survival of their species. Albuquerque is recognized as a Bee City USA. Bee Cities are committed to educating the public and advocating for pollinators at all levels to ensure policies and practices that benefit pollinators. Learn more about Burque Bee City USA.

Protecting bees and other pollinators

As part of the mosquito control program, the Urban Biology Division uses integrated pest management methods to protect bees and other pollinators. These methods are designed to reduce or eliminate pesticide use that may negatively impact bees and other pollinators.

The Environmental Health Department maintains a no-spray list for beekeepers. Beekeepers should report their beehives to 311 and request to be added to the list. The Environmental Health Department's no-spray list is not used by other City Departments or private pest control companies. Beekeepers should also report beehives on DriftWatch.

Honey bee swarms

During the spring months, honeybees will naturally swarm. A swarm is a queen bee leaving a colony with a number of other worker bees in order to establish a new colony. Do not spray or try to kill a bee swarm. Local beekeepers are available to relocate bee swarms.

Wasps

The City of Albuquerque does not remove wasps or wasp nests. Private pest control should be contacted to assist with wasps on private property. Wasp nests on City property can be reported to 311.