In the heart of Mexico City, a dedicated group, primarily women, is working tirelessly to rescue and relocate bee colonies. Adriana Velíz, a veterinarian, founded Abeja Negra SOS in 2018 after witnessing the city's automatic response of extermination to bee complaints. Recognizing the vital role bees play in the ecosystem and their declining populations worldwide, Velíz and her colleagues sought a different approach.

Equipped with protective suits and specialized tools, the team carefully extracts hives from various locations, including trees, gutters, and even light posts. One recent rescue involved a small, docile colony, which Velíz affectionately referred to as "hippie bees." Locating the queen is crucial for successful relocation, and the team listens intently for the telltale "purr" that signals her presence.

The rescued bees are transported to the city's outskirts, where they can thrive in a more natural environment. Abeja Negra SOS then donates the bees to local beekeepers or releases them into the wild. This meticulous process has saved over 500 hives, representing hundreds of thousands of bees, in the past five years.

The organization faces challenges, including the cost of hive removal, which can be prohibitive for some residents. However, their work has inspired similar initiatives, demonstrating a growing awareness of the importance of bee conservation. Despite the obstacles, Abeja Negra SOS remains committed to providing a second chance for these essential pollinators, contributing to a healthier urban ecosystem and inspiring positive change within Mexico City.