In a bizarre incident near Toronto, Canada, drivers found themselves facing a buzzing spectacle as millions of bees swarmed a highway after crates containing the insects fell off a truck. The incident unfolded on Guelph Line in Burlington, Ontario, approximately 50 miles west of Toronto, prompting a swift response from local authorities.
The Halton Regional Police Service took to social media to announce their involvement in a highly unusual situation involving an estimated 5 million bees scattered across the roadway. Officer Ryan Anderson, speaking to The Canadian Press, described the chaotic scene that unfolded, with crates strewn across the road and swarms of bees filling the air. The initial beekeeper on the scene even fell victim to a few stings amidst the chaos.
Fearing for the safety of motorists and pedestrians, police issued a warning for drivers to keep their car windows firmly shut and for people to steer clear of the area until the bees could be safely dealt with. This extraordinary incident required an equally extraordinary response, and it came in the form of a heartwarming display of unity among local beekeepers.
Approximately an hour after the police issued their notice on social media, six or seven beekeepers arrived on the scene to assist in managing the situation. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, most of the bees were safely collected, and the crates were removed from the roadway. However, some crates were deliberately left behind, allowing the scattered bees to naturally return to them.
Authorities cautioned the public to continue avoiding the area and to refrain from approaching or touching the crates left for the bees. These remaining crates would be collected once the bees had safely returned home.
The Canadian Honey Council, a national organization representing the beekeeping industry, offered some insights into the world of honey bees. A typical colony in the summer can consist of 50,000 to 80,000 bees, capable of flying at speeds of up to 15 mph. Furthermore, a queen bee during her peak season may lay an astonishing 2,000 eggs per day, while the average working life of a honey bee is approximately six weeks.