The car pulled over near Missoula was found to be transporting five hives and thousands of Russian honey bees. Photo courtesy Montana Highway Patrol

The car pulled over near Missoula was found to be transporting five hives and thousands of Russian honey bees. Photo courtesy Montana Highway Patrol

MISSOULA, Mont., June 2 (UPI) -- The Montana Highway Patrol a reported reckless driver was found to be driving with thousands of bees flying free in the car.

The MHP said troopers responded May 22 to a road near Missoula on a report of "a vehicle driving all over the road" and they found the motorist was transporting five hives of bees that were being allowed to move freely around the inside of the car.


The driver said the insects were "harmless" Russian honey bees.

The state apiarist was consulted and told troopers that while the motorist's method of transporting the bees was "very unsafe," it did not require a permit.

The driver was cited for careless driving, the MHP said.