I just looked out and didn't see them anymore so went to check things out. Now, they appear to be crawling under one of the fish-scale shingles, just under the upstairs bedroom window. -I can't see any visible cracks/holes there beyond the shingle overlap, but this house was built in 1891 so... Anyway, they really did just arrive today, so is it possible they will still leave if I do nothing for a couple of days?

I see you haven't gotten a reply yet. I am no expert at all. When they swarm I believe they are looking for a new home. They may have found it. I would call a bee keeper right away. The county extension office can give you some numbers but they likely will not be open until Monday. I would check the yellow pages and see if yoy can find someone to call. If they want the bees they may come get them for free. Good luck!!! Tom

Mtnbkr,

Thank you so much for your helpful and courteous response. -Since I knew nothing about this topic, you have a lot more expertise than me! We did call in a beekeeper, but the colony was too established by the time he came out, and we ended up having pest control take care of the problem. (They used pyretherin and sealed the hole afterward.)

Anyway, I really appreciate you acting in the fine Gardenweb tradition I've come to expect; Taking the time to respond to a newbee in trouble, even though it was probably an often asked question.

Regards,
Susan