Phoenix might be known for its sunny skies and desert beauty, but if you’ve lived here long enough, you know there’s another frequent guest that shows up uninvited: bees. From buzzing hives in backyard sheds to aggressive swarms near schoolyards, bee infestations are a growing concern for many local neighborhoods.

And we’re not just talking about the sweet little honeybees. In parts of the Valley, Africanized bees, often called “killer bees,” have been found nesting in walls, irrigation boxes, and even public playgrounds.

At Spark Pest Control, we’ve responded to thousands of calls across Phoenix neighborhoods, and patterns have emerged. Some areas experience far more infestations than others, due to vegetation, water sources, older structures, or even HOA landscaping.

So, let’s take a look at the Phoenix areas most affected by bee problems, and what you can do to protect your home and family.

 

Why Bee Infestations Are Common in Phoenix

The Sonoran Desert may not seem like bee heaven, but for many bee species, including Africanized honeybees. Phoenix is perfect. We have hot temperatures, ample flowering plants year-round, irrigation systems, swimming pools, and homes with plenty of hidden nooks.

In spring and early summer, bee swarms are particularly active, seeking out cool, dark spaces to build new hives. Once they settle in, removing them isn’t as simple as spraying and hoping they leave. In fact, improper removal can make the problem worse or even dangerous.

 

Testimonial from Jane L., Ahwatukee Foothills:
“We kept hearing a low humming sound in our outdoor wall, and within a week, there were bees flying in and out constantly. Spark Pest Control was quick to respond. They located the hive and safely removed it without harming our garden. I had no idea bees could take over that fast.”

 

Top Phoenix Neighborhoods With High Bee Activity

Bee activity isn’t evenly distributed throughout the city. Here are the Phoenix areas where we’ve seen the highest concentration of bee infestations, and what might be attracting them.

 

1. North Mountain Village

Nestled near the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, this area is rich with vegetation, desert trails, and shady backyards. These conditions make it a hotspot for nesting bees, especially in spring.

Common hive spots:

• Attics and roof eaves
• Outdoor sheds
• Irrigation valve boxes

 

2. Ahwatukee Foothills

This scenic, family-oriented community is known for its desert landscape and proximity to South Mountain. Unfortunately, the blend of water features and native plants often attracts bee colonies.

Homeowners here have reported:

• Large swarms in cinder block walls
• Hives inside backyard grills and patio furniture
• Bee activity near schools and HOA-maintained parks

 

3. Arcadia

Arcadia’s lush landscapes and citrus trees are a dream for bees. Older homes and irrigation systems also provide easy access points for hive building.

Signs to watch for:

• Bees entering through wall cracks
• Increased buzzing near fruit trees
• Constant bee presence near garden beds

 

4. Deer Valley

Deer Valley’s mix of commercial zones and suburban neighborhoods creates an ideal environment for bees to spread quickly.

Frequent issues:

• Bees are swarming utility boxes
• Colonies inside sprinkler housing
• Activity near school playgrounds

 

5. South Phoenix

As South Phoenix continues to grow, construction and disturbed land may force bees to relocate to nearby homes. With open lots and water retention areas, bees often find shelter here fast.

Reported trouble spots:

• Apartment complexes
• Business signs and light poles
• Unused outdoor grills and garbage bins

 

Local tip from Spark Pest Control tech, Marco R.:
“We see repeat infestations in neighborhoods with older irrigation setups or block fences. Bees love small, warm, protected places, and unfortunately, Phoenix has a lot of them.”

 

How to Know if Your Neighborhood Is at Risk

Even if you’re not in one of the neighborhoods listed above, bee problems can happen anywhere in Phoenix. Certain conditions make some properties more vulnerable.

Look out for:

• Older homes with unsealed vents or cracks
• Lots of flowering plants or citrus trees
• Consistent access to water (leaky hoses, fountains)
• Abandoned structures or sheds nearby

If you or your neighbors have experienced bee issues before, your property may still be at risk. Bees often return to the same spot if the hive isn’t fully removed.

 

Bee Infestation Warning Signs to Watch For

You don’t need to wait until bees take over your garage. Early warning signs can help you act quickly before a small problem becomes a dangerous one.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Constant buzzing in a specific area of your yard
• Bees entering and exiting the same hole or crack repeatedly
• Clusters of bees near walls, fences, or rooflines
• Discovery of wax, honey, or bee parts near an opening

 

 

What to Do if You Suspect a Bee Infestation

If you think bees are nesting on your property, don’t attempt to remove them yourself, especially if you suspect they may be Africanized.

Here’s what to do:

• Stay away from the area
• Keep kids and pets inside
• Don’t block or spray the entrance
• Call a licensed bee removal specialist right away

The team at Spark Pest Control uses safe, effective removal methods and will determine whether relocation or extermination is the best option based on the situation.

 

Concerned About Bees in Your Neighborhood? Call Spark Pest Control Today

Phoenix bee infestations aren’t just annoying. They can be dangerous. Whether you’re in Arcadia, Ahwatukee, or anywhere across Maricopa County, our licensed professionals at Spark Pest Control are ready to help. We offer fast response, safe removal, and follow-up prevention to keep your home bee-free. Don’t wait for a swarm to settle in. Take action today.

Call now for a free inspection or schedule online. Let’s protect your family and your neighborhood.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which Phoenix neighborhood has the most bee problems?
Areas like Arcadia, Ahwatukee, and North Mountain Village report higher infestation rates due to landscaping and older infrastructure.

2. What makes certain Phoenix areas more prone to bee infestations?
Plentiful vegetation, water sources, and older buildings with entry points create ideal nesting environments for bees.

3. Are Africanized bees common in Phoenix?
Yes. Africanized bees, known for their aggressive behavior, are common in Phoenix and are often mistaken for regular honeybees.

4. How can I tell if there’s a hive in my backyard wall?
Look for bees entering the same crack repeatedly, hear buzzing from the wall, or notice wax and honey buildup near the entrance.

5. Is it safe to remove bees myself?
No. DIY bee removal can be dangerous, especially with Africanized bees. Always call a licensed professional.

6. How fast can a bee infestation grow?
Bee colonies can grow rapidly, with thousands of bees establishing a hive within just a few days.

7. What’s the best season for bees in Phoenix?
Spring and early summer are peak bee activity seasons due to blooming plants and ideal temperatures.

8. Can bees return after removal?
Yes. If the hive is not fully removed or entry points are left open, bees can return to the same spot.

9. Does Spark Pest Control offer bee prevention services?
Yes. We inspect for vulnerable areas and seal off common entry points to prevent future infestations.

10. What should I do if my neighbor has a hive?
Politely let them know about the issue and suggest contacting a professional. If it poses a safety risk, HOA or city code enforcement may need to be notified.