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20,000 bees follow grandmother's car for two days to rescue trapped queen

Sunday, 04/02/2024, 15:07 (GMT+7)

A massive swarm of 20,000 bees persistently chased an elderly woman's car for two days to rescue the queen trapped inside.

In a remarkable event, a grandmother's car became the center of attention as it was swarmed by a massive group of 20,000 bees for an astonishing two-day period. 

The incident occurred when the queen bee of the swarm became trapped in the car's boot, causing the rest of the bees to diligently follow their leader.

20,000 bees follow grandmother's car for two days to rescue trapped queen 1
A swarm of 20,000 bees chased a car to rescue the queen bee. Image Credit: Reddit

An elderly woman's car was surrounded by a giant swarm of bees

Carol Howarth, a 65-year-old woman, parked her silver Mitsubishi Outlander in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, while she embarked on a routine shopping trip. 

She had no idea that her car would soon become a buzzing spectacle, captivating the attention of passers-by and causing quite a stir.

During Carol's absence, the swarm of 20,000 bees descended upon her vehicle, causing a horrifying scene. 

The bees clung to the car for a staggering 28 hours, leaving Carol amazed upon her return. 

She had never witnessed anything of this magnitude before, and it served as a powerful reminder of the force of nature.

20,000 bees follow grandmother's car for two days to rescue trapped queen 2
The bees persistently followed the car for 2 days. Image Credit: Reddit

As news of the spectacle spread, three beekeepers, a national park ranger, and brave onlookers joined forces to capture the swarm. 

They managed to corral the bees into a cardboard box, ensuring the safety of both the bees and the public. However, the story took an unexpected turn.

The bees persistently chased the car to rescue the queen bee

When Carol drove away in her 4X4, she soon realized that a significant number of bees were still trailing behind her. 

Approximately two miles later, she arrived at her home, only to find hundreds of bees still faithfully following her. 

It was supposed that the queen bee was trapped inside the car, and the rest of the swarm instinctively clung to their leader.

Undeterred by the persistence of the bees, Carol promptly contacted the beekeepers once again. 

20,000 bees follow grandmother's car for two days to rescue trapped queen 3
The queen bee got stuck in the trunk of the car, causing the bees to go crazy and chase the car. Image Credit: Reddit

This time, they expertly intervened, rescuing the remaining bees that had followed her home. 

Although the number was significantly reduced compared to the initial swarm, the presence of these loyal followers was undeniable.

Roger Burns, a member of the Pembrokeshire Beekeepers, carefully collected the remaining bees, enduring several stings in the process.

20,000 bees follow grandmother's car for two days to rescue trapped queen 4
Even though their numbers were much reduced compared to the first swarm, they still persistently chased the car to rescue the queen bee. Image Credit: Reddit

This captivating incident left even experienced beekeepers astounded. It is an exceedingly rare occurrence for a swarm of bees to diligently follow a car for such an extended period. 

The event serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of bees to their queen and highlights the remarkable power of nature.