Where to start

[SixFooter]

I went to look at an established feral hive with bees entering through a gap under roof tiles. Lots and lots of bees and there could well be a large established colony in there. The question is, how do I find out where the nest is? They could be under the floor of the upstairs bedroom or behind the plasterboard walls. It would help if I could establish the location before I start pulling apart the fabric of the building.
Only idea I have is to listen for them with a stethoscope

 

[tonybloke]

a stethoscope sounds like a good idea.

 

[SixFooter]

Is the nest likely to be close to the entrance or could it be a fair distance from it?

 

[davemacdon]

Get chatting to your local fire service. If they are willing to help, you may (along with them) be able to use their thermal image camera. May help show up some warmer spots depending on the wall types and thicknesses.

Just an idea.

 

[Chris Luck]

Normally very close to the entrance in my experience and a flexible inspection camera is useful if you can lay your hands on one, perhaps a mechanic friend?

Chris