INVASIVE BEE REMOVAL IN CROCKETT, PALESTINE & EAST TEXAS
Safe Removal of Africanized and Aggressive Bee Colonies
Finding a bee swarm on your property or a hive in your wall is serious. Especially in Texas,
where Africanized honey bees (often called “killer bees”) are common.
Regular honey bees can usually be relocated by a beekeeper. Africanized bees? They’re
aggressive, dangerous, and need professional removal.
We handle bee problems safely and effectively.
James M
5 Star Google Review
I contacted Critter Gitters this morning to help me eradicate a huge wasp nest on the front of my house and around the eaves of my roof. They kindly came out a couple of hours later, killed all of the wasps, and sent me a picture of the nests. Now THAT’S service!!! Wouldn’t use anyone else!! Thanks Lane for your help and awesome service!
Thai Folta
5 Star Google Review
We have used Critter Gitters for years and wouldn’t think to go elsewhere. They are extremely detail oriented, down to the de-webbing of the whole exterior of our home. They are always extremely professional and punctual (which is a huge must for us). I couldn’t recommend a better company than Critter Gitters!
George Lee
5 Star Google Review
We have used Critter Gitters for years and wouldn’t think to go elsewhere. They are extremely detail oriented, down to the de-webbing of the whole exterior of our home. They are always extremely professional and punctual (which is a huge must for us). I couldn’t recommend a better company than Critter Gitters!
Joy Ione
5 Star Google Review
Joey Baker was highly recommended by the realtor who sold me my house. I saw what looked like termites, but Joey came right away and identified carpenter ants. I saved some dead ones in a zip lock bag for him to look at. He and his team treated the inside and outside of the house. It only took 2 treatments to get rid of the little critters. Don't do what I did. When they first started trailing out of the wall, I sprayed pesticide on them. Joey let me know to let them trail, otherwise they will go back in and make another colony.
Carol Dawson
5 Star Google Review
Critter Getters is always there when I need them!! They are prompt, competent and very reliable! You can certainly trust your staff at Critter Getters! They are the best!!
Wb Byrd
5 Star Google Review
Critter Gitters has provide great service for me for years. The local touch compares to no other. I’m grateful, and my children are as well, to be able to enjoy our backyard year round.
Greg Wassberg
5 Star Google Review
Whether one has bugs inside their home or outside, Critter Gitters offers the complete pest control services. Having mosquito issues outside, they have a service for that. Termite issues, they have a service for that too. Locally owned, and affordable. The technicians are also professional, safe, and understand that each homeowner has their own unique concerns.
Tyler Tabor
5 Star Google Review
We have been using Critter Gitters for years now and wouldn’t recommend anyone else! Joey is very professional yet personable and always has a smile on his face . He tries to make each service as easy as possible. If you’re looking for an amazing pest service experience…look no further!
READY TO GET STARTED?
Africanized Honey Bees vs. European Honey Bees
You can’t tell them apart by looking. They look identical. The difference is behavior.
European Honey Bees (Regular Bees):
- Generally docile unless provoked
- Defend the hive but aren’t overly aggressive
- Can usually be relocated by beekeepers
- Important pollinators we want to preserve when possible
Africanized Honey Bees:
- Extremely aggressive and defensive
- Attack in large numbers with little provocation
- Chase threats for long distances
- More likely to swarm and establish colonies in unusual places
- Still important pollinators, but too dangerous to relocate in most cases
In East Texas, assume any wild bee colony is Africanized until proven otherwise. Better safe than sorry.
Signs You Have a Bee Problem
Swarms
A mass of bees clustered on a tree branch, fence, or structure. They're looking for a new home. Sometimes they move on within a few days. Sometimes they decide to stay.
Don’t approach a swarm. Call us.
Hive in Structure
Bees building a hive inside your wall, attic, soffit, shed, or other structure. You'll see bees coming and going from a specific entry point.
This requires immediate removal – the longer they’re there, the more established they become.
Increased Bee Activity
Seeing lots of bees around your property, especially near one area. Could indicate a nearby hive or swarm.
Aggressive Behavior
If bees are chasing people or pets without obvious provocation, they're likely Africanized. Get everyone inside and call us immediately.
Our Bee Removal Process
Assessment
We figure out what you’re dealing with. Swarm or established hive? Where’s it located? How aggressive are they?
If it’s a small swarm of docile bees, we might be able to contact a local beekeeper for relocation.
If it’s Africanized bees or an established hive in a structure, removal is necessary.
Treatment and Removal
For Africanized or aggressive colonies, we treat the hive to eliminate the colony. We use products specifically labeled for bee control.
Once the colony is eliminated, we remove the hive material (comb, honey, bees) from the structure. This is critical – leaving it attracts other pests and can cause secondary problems.
Exclusion and Repair
We seal the entry point so new swarms don’t move into the same location.
If the hive was inside a wall or structure, we might need to cut access to remove it properly, then repair the opening.
Why You Can’t Just Spray and Walk Away
Killing the bees is only part of the solution.
If you leave the hive (comb and honey) inside your wall, it will:
- Melt in the heat and seep through drywall
- Attract ants, roaches, beetles, and rodents
- Create a massive mess and odor
- Provide a ready-made home for the next swarm that comes along
Proper bee removal means removing the entire hive.
Bee Removal in Structures – What’s Involved
If bees have built a hive inside your wall, attic, or other structure, removal is more involved.
We need access to the hive. Sometimes that means removing siding, soffit, or drywall. We do our best to minimize damage, but accessing a hive inside a wall isn’t always pretty.
Once we have access:
- Eliminate the colony
- Remove all comb, honey, and bees
- Clean and deodorize the cavity
- Seal the entry point
- Repair the access point we created
We work with you to keep costs reasonable while doing the job properly.
What About Wasp and Hornet Nests?
Those are included in your regular pest control service (Essential, Premium, or Elite Plans).
We remove wasp and hornet nests up to 15 feet (Essential) or 30 feet (Premium and Elite) as part of your quarterly service.
Bees are different – they're not covered under regular service because removal is way more involved.
Bee Swarm Removal
If you’ve got a swarm on your property (not in a structure, just hanging on a tree or fence), we can usually handle it quickly.
For non-aggressive swarms, we’ll try to connect you with a local beekeeper who might relocate them for free.
For aggressive swarms or if relocation isn’t possible, we treat and remove the swarm.
Swarm removal is typically less expensive than hive removal from a structure because there’s no established comb to deal with.
Preventing Bee Problems
Bees are attracted to cavities and sheltered areas. Reduce attractants:
Seal gaps and holes in soffits, vents, and siding. Fill old rodent burrows and ground cavities.
Remove old equipment, tires, and containers where bees might nest.
Keep sheds and outbuildings in good repair.
Trim overgrown vegetation that creates sheltered areas.
If you see bees investigating an area (flying in and out of a gap repeatedly), call us before they establish a hive.
Bee Removal Safety
Bee removal is dangerous. Especially with Africanized bees.
We wear protective gear. We have the right equipment. We know how to work around aggressive colonies safely.
Don’t try this yourself. People die from bee attacks every year in Texas. Multiple stings can cause serious medical emergencies even without allergies.
If you or someone on your property is allergic to bee stings, get everyone inside immediately and call us. We’ll treat it as an emergency.
Bee Removal Across East Texas
We’ve removed bee colonies across Crockett, Palestine, Huntsville, Conroe, and throughout our service area.
Rural properties with outbuildings see more bee problems. Older homes with gaps and cavities are prime targets. Wooded areas with natural nesting sites nearby have more swarm activity.
We’ve handled everything from small swarms to massive hives inside walls. We know what we’re doing.
Bee Removal Costs
Depends on the situation:
Simple swarm removal costs less. Established hives in a structure costs more (especially if we need to cut access and remove comb).
We'll give you a clear quote after assessing the situation. No hidden fees.
Yes, it costs more than regular pest control. But bee removal requires specialized knowledge, safety equipment, and often structural work. You're paying for expertise and safety.
Getting Help with Bees
If you’ve got a bee problem, call (936) 546-7493 immediately.
Don’t approach the hive or swarm. Keep people and pets away. We’ll get there as soon as possible – usually same day for aggressive bee situations.
Joey’s certified through NWCOA in advanced wildlife control. We take bee removal seriously and do it safely.
Been removing bees from East Texas properties since 2006. Let us handle it so you don’t have to risk getting stung.
process
Let’s Get Started
Connect & Schedule
Your protection starts with a simple conversation.
Our friendly customer service team listens to your concerns, answers questions, and helps schedule an inspection or service visit at your convenience.
Inspection & Diagnosis
We Identify the Source
Our certified technicians perform a detailed inspection of your property — inside and out. We identify pest types, entry points, and contributing conditions to determine exactly what’s happening and why.
Customized Treatment
Science-Based Targeted Solution
Using proven Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, we design a treatment plan tailored to your home, pest type, and environment. We use precision applications — not overuse — to ensure safe, effective, and lasting results.
Guaranteed Results
Professional Service Guaranteed
Our trained specialists apply targeted treatments using the latest tools and environmentally responsible products. We treat interior and exterior zones, eliminate nests and harborage areas, and establish a protective barrier around your home.
Certified Local Expertise
Family-Focused Service
Guaranteed Results
WHY CHOOSE US
Why Homeowners Across East Texas Trust Critter Gitters
Science-Based Solutions, Never Guesswork
Science-Based Solutions, Never Guesswork
Integrity-First Service, Always
Integrity-First Service, Always
We lead with honesty and reliability. At Critter Gitters, integrity means fair pricing, clear communication, and doing the job right the first time—every time.
Training That Exceeds Industry Standards
Training That Exceeds Industry Standards
Our technicians undergo continuous training that goes beyond industry requirements, ensuring every service is performed with expert knowledge, precision, and the latest pest control techniques.
Certified Expertise You Can Trust
Certified Expertise You Can Trust
Our team is fully licensed and certified, bringing proven expertise to every job. You can trust Critter Gitters for safe, professional, and effective pest control backed by years of experience.
Guaranteed Results — Or We’ll Make It Right
Guaranteed Results — Or We’ll Make It Right
Your satisfaction is our promise. If the covered pests come back, so will we – 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
About Us
Critter Gitters
Built on Experience, and a Promise to Protect
Family-owned and operated since 2006, Critter Gitters Pest Management has proudly served East Texas with trusted, science-based pest control solutions that protect homes, families, and peace of mind. Founded by Joey Baker, our company was built on the belief that true pest control starts with understanding the problem — not just treating the symptoms.
Experience the Critter Gitters Difference
When you choose Critter Gitters, you’re choosing more than a pest control company — you’re partnering with certified professionals dedicated to protecting your home, health, and comfort with integrity and care.
Our Expertise = Your Peace of Mind.
Our process begins with inspection and diagnosis, not quick fixes. By combining scientific precision, advanced training, and eco-conscious practices, we deliver results that last — not treatments that repeat.
, ACE
Owner & Founder
Packages
Bundle and Save 10% when you add Mosquito Duo Defense or Lawn & Ornamental to any package.
Package Includes
Essential Plan
Essential
Proven protection for everyday peace of mind.
Elite Plan
Elite
Complete coverage. Ultimate peace of mind.
Ants (Argentine, Rover & Odorous House)
Roaches (Peridomestic species)
Spiders, Millipedes, Centipedes, Crickets, Earwigs, Silverfish, Ground Beetles, Pill Bugs, and other occasional invaders
Interior and exterior treatments every 3 months
Targeted crack, crevice, and perimeter applications
Web and wasp nest removal up to 15 ft
Guaranteed re-service between visits if pests return
Rodent monitoring and exterior bait stations
Wasp nest removal up to 30 ft
Fire Ant treatment up to 20,000 sq ft
Full Sentricon® Termite Monitoring System
Carpenter Ant treatment
Additional Services
Need more than standard pest control? Our advanced services deliver customized protection for complex infestations, long-term prevention, and total peace of mind.
- Termite Inspections / WDO Real Estate Reports
- Carpenter Ants
- Fire Ants
- German Roach Clean-out
- Fleas & Ticks
- Rodent Trapping & Exclusion
- Arbor Jet Tree Injections
- Scorpion Plan
- Termite Treatments (Termidor and Sentricon)
- Bed Bugs
- Invasive Bees
- Mosquitoes
- Wildlife Trapping & Exclusion
- Lawn & Ornamental
Locations
Serving Families and Businesses
Throughout East Texas
Anderson County
Anderson County
Leon County
Leon County
Walker County
Walker County
Trinity County
Trinity County
Henderson County
Henderson County
Madison County
Madison County
Montgomery County
Montgomery CountyFAQ’s
Common Questions from Our Customers
What pests are covered in your Essential Plan?
Our Essential Plan covers the most common household pests, including ants, spiders, roaches, silverfish, and occasional rodents. This plan is designed to provide year-round protection for your home and prevent infestations before they become a problem.
How is the Premium Plan different from the Essential Plan?
The Premium Plan offers comprehensive protection beyond the Essential Plan, including coverage for termites and carpenter ant control. It’s the total defense solution for your home and property.
Do you offer termite control or inspections?
Yes! We provide full termite control and inspection services. Our experts use advanced detection methods and safe, effective treatments to protect your home from termite damage and prevent future infestations.
Are your treatments safe for my family and pets?
Absolutely! All our treatments are family- and pet-safe. We use environmentally friendly products and methods that effectively eliminate pests while keeping your loved ones and pets safe.
Can I combine mosquito or lawn services with my pest plan?
Yes! You can easily add mosquito or lawn care services to any of our pest control plans. This lets you enjoy complete protection for your home and yard, all in one convenient package.
What areas do you serve?
We proudly serve Houston County and surrounding areas, providing reliable pest control services to both residential and commercial properties. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, just contact us — we’re happy to help!
