"Killer" Bees
Africanized Honey Bee

There is no visual distinction from the native honey bee and that of the Africanized honey bee. The Africanized honey bee is slightly larger, but not noticeably larger to be seen. As with its name the Africanized honey bee came from Africa.

The African honey bee has been found in Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and California. It lives best in warm climates. It is unlikely that it will move into the northern states.

The main difference in the native honey bees and the African honey bee is the African honey bee is much more aggressive. The African honey bee can chase its prey several hundred yards or even a ½ mile when protecting its colony. When anything gets close to their colonies hundreds of worker bees will attack, stinging its victims over and over. These bees are attracted to dark color clothing, vibrations, loud noises and perfumes. Their stings do not have any more venom; it’s just the number of stings from all the workers that cause them to be deadly. Once a worker bee stings or looses it stinger they will die.

When being attacked run, get as far away as you can from the hive. Get into your vehicle or home as quick as you can to cut yourself off from the attack. Limiting the number of stings as soon as possible my save your life. Remove the stinger as soon as you, the bag at the end of the stinger have the venom. Try not to squeeze it as it may pump more venom in to you. If stung get cold rags or towels to compress the stings until you can get medical attention.

Do not try to remove any bee hives or treat any infestations without professional help. Call us at RP Lee Termite & Pest Control to consult or rid your home of bees.