How to Pitch Swarmed
- Find the Right Reporter
- Look for local journalists who cover community news, environmental topics, or public interest stories.
- Check your city newspaper, TV stations, local blogs, or radio.
- Introduce Yourself
- Mention that you’re a local beekeeper.
- Explain you work with Swarmed, a platform that helps the public report bee swarms to beekeepers.
- Offer a Simple, Visual Story
- Share a quick example of a swarm rescue you’ve done.
- Explain how Swarmed makes it easy for the public to get help (and avoid exterminating bees).
- Provide Helpful Links & Visuals
- Link them to beeswarmed.org.
- Offer photos of past rescues (with permission).
- Suggest a demo rescue or interview if they’re interested.
5. Use Impactful Stats
- Mention that less than 25% of swarms survive without beekeeper intervention, according to Dr. Tom Seeley’s research.
- Highlight that tens of thousands of swarms occur across the U.S. each spring and summer.
- Reference the latest Project Apis m. colony loss study, which found that beekeepers lost an average of 62% of their colonies between June 2024 and February 2025, resulting in an estimated economic loss of over $634 million.
Pro Tip
Pitch in early spring (March–April) to coincide with swarm season and maximize media interest.
Sample Pitch Email
Subject Line:
Story idea: how local beekeepers handle bee swarms in spring
Body:
I’m a beekeeper in [Your Town], reaching out with a story idea as swarm season approaches.
Each spring, honey bee swarms are a common sight in our area. They often settle in trees, fences, or public spaces, and while they are not aggressive, many people are unsure how to respond.
I’m part of a community platform called Swarmed (beeswarmed.org) that helps connect swarm reports from the public with local beekeepers. It is a simple way to make sure swarms are safely removed and rehomed.
Last year, I responded to several swarm calls, including [brief example of a local swarm you handled].