Frequently Asked Questions Africanized Honey Bees

 

Why is the African bee called the “killer” bee?

The term “Killer-Bee” is a name that the media and Hollywood gave to the Africanized Honey Bee. The reason being is that the Africanized bees are more known to be more aggressive and defend there nest when they feel it is being threatened by invaders. They will travel in greater numbers and further distance than that of the European bee. Thus the term “killer-bee” was given as they were thought to be chasing down those that have disturbed them. If you need assistance with any sort of bee removal in Bradenton or surrounding areas, please call 1-866-263-WILD!

How is the African bee different from our domestic European bee?

The African bee is known to be slightly smaller than the European bee, but this is not something that can be seen by the human eye, it takes a laboratory test to measure and determine the difference. An African bee sting is no more venomous than a European bee sting. The most distinguishing difference is their behavior. Africanized bees produce more offspring, agressively defend their nest, and are more likely to abandon their hive if they feel threatened by predators or climate change.

How did African bees come to North America?

Researchers brought the African bees to Brazil in the 1950s in an attempt to improve the productivity of Brazilian bees. A large wild population quickly developed and spread through South America, Central America and Mexico. In the 1990s, the Africanized honey bee was identified in Texas and has since spread though the southwestern U.S. In 2002, Florida had its first positive identification of an Africanized honey bee in the Tampa Bay area. (DACS)

Will African bees try to hurt people?

No bees try to hurt people. They are simply using their defense mechanisms when they feel threatened which is to sting and drive the predator away.

How should people avoid African bees?

You avoid African bees just as you would any other bee, stinging insect, spider or poisonous snake. However bee awareness is important because they could have a nest almost anywhere. When out doing yard work or maybe even walking the neighborhood be careful of hollowed trees or fallen limbs, these are often areas that bees will find to make a nest. Not to mention various openings that could be in on or around the home that they will find and take up residency in. Also, when hiking in the country, keep an escape route in mind at all times. Remember the words Look, Listen, Run.

How do you get away from stinging bees?

RUN, do not swat at them because if you happen to squish one it will release pheromones and attract other bees to come. Bees tend to sting the face and head, this is because you are emitting carbon dioxide, so try to cover your nose and mouth with your hands while running. Never just stand still or get yourself stuck in a place outdoors where you cannot escape the attacking bees. Always try to seek shelter. Run for a building or vehicle. If some bees happen to get inside don’t panic they will usually become disoriented and fly towards to the light at the windows.

Call Nuisance Wildlife Removal, Inc. today, to humanely solve your bee problems, and bee proof your home! 1-866-263-WILD or 941- 729-2103. Feel free to ask us any questions. Click here to send a message.