blanc: Perhaps I shouldn't admit this, but one of my best allies is a staunch Beekeeper, and also a Pest Control Operator. We always do our absolute best to save the colony, or at least as many bees as possible, but some times, you just can't save them all. It always breaks my heart, but when bees have moved into a home ceiling or whatever, and you've spent a few sweltering hours trying to do a cut out and save the colony, you save what you can, but then you have to remember the job you are there to do, which is to get rid of the bees for the customer. I sure hate to see a tree colony go by the extermination method, but then again, how high up, and how sturdy the branch? I am ALL for saving the bees...but I don't think any of us would risk life and limb. Sorry you are distressed, and I truly understand. Just please, before climbing this tree, take your own value into consideration before taking risks. Deal? We can try, but the bottom line is, we can't save them all.
ps...have a gentle talk with the fellow beek to let them know they may be losing sight of their original goal... ;)