Commuters at the Flushing-Main Street station faced an unexpected challenge during rush hour on Wednesday: a swarm of bees took over the station entrance, creating a scene more reminiscent of a hive than a subway stop.
The Bee Invasion
Hundreds of bees covered the station’s railing so densely that the green paint underneath was barely visible. The insects also hovered overhead, making it difficult for commuters to enter the Downtown Flushing station without encountering the swarm. Many opted to find alternative entrances or avoid the area altogether.
Response and Impact
The hive was first noticed around 5:30 p.m., according to videographer Lukasz Bielawski. By Thursday morning, the size of the swarm had significantly diminished. The affected entrance was cordoned off, and station agents redirected riders to other entry points. Fortunately, subway service remained unaffected.
Efforts to Resolve the Situation
It remains unclear whether NYPD beekeepers were involved in removing the bees from the station. Their intervention would have been necessary to safely relocate the insects and restore normal access for commuters.
The bee swarm at the Flushing-Main Street station entrance created an unusual and unexpected challenge for New York City commuters. Despite the inconvenience, transit services were maintained, and efforts were made to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.