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ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — A massive, decades-old bee “super hive” was uncovered in Albany after a tree crashed down, exposing what officials say could be one of the largest colonies they have ever seen.

The fallen tree revealed a hive estimated to span 20 feet long and 8 feet wide, according to the city of Albany Risk Management department.

The Albany homeowners said the tree came down unexpectedly and showed them what was growing undetected for nearly 30 years in their backyard.

Close-up views show a dense, stacked honeycomb, suggesting a long-established colony filled with thousands of honeybees.

An exterminator said their observations indicated that the hive may have supported multiple queens, a rare structure for honeybee colonies.

The risk management department said the insects do not pose an immediate threat to the neighborhood. However, the bees should not be disturbed without a trained expert.

Most of the colony has already relocated, leaving behind nurse bees to maintain what remains of the hive.

City officials are working to determine a timeline for removing the tree and remaining hive while taking appropriate safety precautions.

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