Giant Beehive in Apartment Ceiling Forces Family Out in Espírito Santo

Overview

• After the initial removal, crews opened interior walls due to a strong odor and found thousands of dead bees that required additional cleanup and repairs.
• Approximately 40 liters of honey were recovered from the ceiling hive, which an industry expert estimated at about 54 kilograms and unusually large for a home.
• Apiculturists demolished part of the kitchen ceiling and used smoke to calm the insects so the colony could be removed alive and relocated to a nursery.
• The infestation escalated when a neighbor sealed an exterior opening, sending bees through outlets and fixtures and forcing the family to evacuate as their allergic child required hospital care.
• Authorities and specialists advise residents to avoid handling colonies and to call the fire department, environmental police or qualified beekeepers for safe removal.