For the last few years bees have been in decline in the UK. There are many reasons for this, but certainly the weather has not helped.
In the last week I have found two nests in disused birds nest boxes. It seems that the Queen finds these nest sites while she is carrying eggs. She lays her eggs in her new nest and these hatch into her new workers creating a new colony which also attracts other workers from the area.
Given that the one located in our garden has caused us to notice far more bees in our raspberry bushes, chive and thyme flowers, we are more than happy to leave the box where it is to help and be helped. Bees can only be good for a garden, whether it is a vegetable plot like ours, or full of flowers.
So if you do find one, don't panic, leave them be(e) and let them get on with their vital task. They won't hurt you and if necessary you can move the nest a short distance after dark, but I wouldn't recommend it, view them as a bonus for your garden.
