We had them inches from the kitchen door. Never a problem.They didn't even come into the house. I would've welcomed them back. They will be no problem at all
Bees are native to this country so children have to get used to them. Just teach them not to touch any insect they find but just to watch them.
Tree bumblebees are an invasive species and have only been in this country since 2001. So far they seem to be having no negative effect on native bees and some studies say they might even have a positive help due to their disease resistance.
I've had them nest in the roof, in bird boxes and in compost heaps and never seen any signs of aggression from them. You might see them swarming around the nest entrance though which can look a bit worrying but apparently only the male bees do that and the males have no sting and have a one track mind so they're no danger.
If you can keep your head, while those around you are losing theirs, you may not have grasped the seriousness of the situation.
Thanks B3 I don't want any harm to come to them. thanks wild edges I do encourage bees and butterflies with my border plants and they do swarm around the entrance to the bird house. I am no expert on bees, but I've always enjoyed their visits to my garden and taught the children to respect them. Old Arthritic Marc (great name!) I agree with you and am teaching the children about the insects in the garden using an app. As I said Im no expert but grateful for the advice from kind people on this forum.
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