Bee Alert: Africanized Honey Bee Facts

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From brochure by Cooperative Extension, University of California, County of San Diego. [Killer bees have not been found in Julian yet but they are down in the desert. It only a matter of time before they get to Julian] Bee Prepared Africanized honey bees (AHB)-also called "killer bees"-became extablished in Texas in 1990 and are spreading to other southern states. AHB are exoected to enter southern California by the mid-1990's and eventually migrate throughout the state. Although its "killer" reputation has been greatly exaggerated, the presence of AHB will increase the chances of people being stung. Learning about the AHB and taking certain precautions can lower the risk of being injured by this new insect in our environment. The Africanized honey bee is closely related to the European honey bee used in agriculture for crop pollination and honey production. teh two types of bees look the same and their befavior is similar in many respects. Neither is likely to sting when gathering nectar and pollen from flowers, but both will sting in defense if provoked. A swarm of bees in flight or briefly at rest seldom bothers people. However, all bees become defensive when they settle, begin producing wax comb and raising young. Africanized and European Honey bees Look the same Protect their nest and sting in defense Can sting only once Have the same venom Pollinate flowers Produce honey and wax Africanized honey bees are less predictable and more defensive that European honey bees. They are more likely to defend a greater area around their nest. They respond faster in greater numbers, although each bee can sting only once. Africanized Honey Bees Respond quickly and sting in large numbers Can sense a threat from people or animals 50 feet or more from nest Sense vibrations from power equipment 100 feet or more from nest. Will pursue an enemy 1/4 mile or more Swarm frequently to establish new nests Nest in small cavities and sheltered areas AHB nest in many locations where people may encounter them. Nesting sites include: empty boxes, cans, buckets or other containers; old tires; infrequently used vehicles; lumber piles; holes and cavities in fences, trees or the ground; sheds, grages and other outbuildings; and low decks or spaces under buildings. Remove potential nest sites around buildings. Be careful wherever bees may be found. General Precautions Listen for buzzing indicating a nest or swarm of bees Use care when entering sheds or outbuildings where bees may nest Examine work area before using lawn mowers, weed cutters, and other power equipment Be alert when participating in all outdoor sports and activities Don't disturb a nest or swarm-contact a pest control company or an emergency response organization Teach children to be cautious and respectful of all bees Check with a doctor about bee sting kits and procedures if sensitive to bee stings Develop a safety plan for your home and yard Organize a meeting to inform neighbors about the AHB to help increase neighborhood safety Bee-Proofing Your Home Remove possible nesting sites around home and yard Inspect outside walls and eaves of home and yard Seal openings larger than 1/8 inch in walls, around chimneys and plumbing Install fine screens (1/8" hardwar cloth) over tops of rain spouts, vents, and openings in water meter/utility boxes From spring to fall check once or twice a week for bees entering or leaving the same area of you home or yard As a general rule, stay away from all honey bee swams and colonies. If bees are encountered, get away quickly. While running away, try to protect face and eyes as much as possible. Take shelter in a car or building. Water or thick brush does not offer enough protection. Do not stand and swat at bees; rapid motions will cause them to sting. What to do if stung Go quickly to a safe area Remove stinger as soon as possible Don't squeeze stinger; pressure will release more venom Scrape stinger out with fingernail, knife blade or credit card Wash sting area with soap and water like any other wound Apply ice pack for a few minutes to relieve pain and swelling Seek medical attention if breathing is troubled, if stung numberous times or if allergic to bee stings