We are watching bees buzzing around the log-burner. Inside, thankfully! HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[mylovelymonster]

So, bees. Think honey bees. Could be new swarm arriving or there could be an established nest/hive in the chimney. We haven't used the fire all winter because flue liner has gone and needs replacing so were going to do it before the winter when we renovate the room.

I have left a message with a local bee-keeper for some advice, but it's Saturday and their all out.
I know wasps leave their nests in the autumn, but do honey bees just go dormant in their hive? Do you think there's a chance we could smoke them out? We have 20 or so in burner, and about the same flying around stack outside - could be more but not masses.
Any experience?
I don't think they are able to get out and into the house, so happy to leave if we can't smoke out, but if they will leave in autumn and we can remove hive easily??

Recommendations for good reliable folks in North Herts/Cambs area would be great.
TIA x

[mylovelymonster]

Sorry for awful spelling - I meant 'they're all out'. I have a nasty reaction to bee stings and am in a bit of a 2&8

[MousyMouse]

call the local bee association.
this time of year bees swarm (part of the hive flies away with a new queen) and try to find a new nest.
or it could be wild bees (most of them protected).
but the bee-keeper shoild be able to see whatkind of bees they are.