Truck Overturns Releasing 24 Million Bees in Orange County, Texas
An 18-wheeler carrying roughly 400 beehives overturned on Sunday in Orange County, Texas, spilling an estimated 24 million bees into a residential area.
The Incident
The crash occurred in the Colony Lane and Colony Drive area. According to Queen Bee Supply LLC, which owned the bees, the truck failed to negotiate a turn, causing the rollover. Each hive contained between 60,000 and 80,000 bees.
Commercial Response & Cleanup
The bees were being transported north for commercial crop pollination. Following the spill, several commercial outfits and backyard beekeepers assisted in safely relocating the insects. Cleanup continued into Monday, with bee swarms observed on nearby fences and trees.
Public Safety Advisory
Residents were advised to stay indoors, avoid the work zone, and not swat at the bees. Portions of the neighborhood were closed until operations were complete.
Resolution
Crews successfully transferred the hives onto transport trucks and hauled them to a local honey farm. Most bees have been safely relocated.
Expert Warning on Swarms
Fire officials noted that unmanaged swarms can pose stinging risks and disrupt local ecosystems. If a queen bee dies, worker bees may urgently nurture a new queen. Officials advised anyone encountering a swarm to run away, hide, and protect their head and face without swatting.