|
 Domesticated European Honey Bees have always been a part of our environment. However, with the arrival of Africanized Honey Bees (popularly known as "Killer Bees") people are very concerned about coexisting with bees. Here are some helpful tips you should keep in mind to "Bee safe" during the summer months.
General Information
Africanized bees are actually crosses between African bees and European (domestic) bees. Unfortunately, the aggressiveness of the African ancestors is a dominant trait in the offspring.
Africanized and European Honey Bees look the same to the naked eye. They are only slightly smaller than domestic bees and only scientists in specially equipped labs can identify the bees. Vector Control Employees cannot identify bees, so try to stay away from all bees. Africanized Bees only swarm when they are starting a new colony or reacting defensively to a perceived threat.
Africanized Bees are not comfortable around people or animals, so any disturbance near their hive puts them on immediate alert.
Bee Safe This Summer
 Bee trouble happens when humans stumble onto an Africanized Bee hive. The Africanized Bee is a wild bee that will set up a nesting site in:
- Cracks in Buildings
- Trees
- Underneath Mobile Homes
- Flower Pots
- Old Tires
- Playground Equipment
- Woodpiles
- Barns and Sheds
Take Some Common Sense Precautions at Home
 Make a "bee patrol" around your home (listen for the sound of bees in the air) once or twice a week during the swarming season (normally the Spring and Fall).- Bee proof your home by filling in potential nesting sites such as tree cavities and holes in outside walls.
- Put screens on the tops of rain spouts and over water meter boxes in the ground and remove piles of trash and junk.
- Inspect pens and barns where animals are confined or leashed.
- Inspect areas before mowing or operating other machinery. The vibration and exhaust from machines can disturb the beehive and bees will respond by attacking.
Who and When to Call
If you discover a bee colony, don't disturb it. Seek shelter in a building or car. If the beehive is located on city property, please call (951) 787-7911 and the Public Works Department will respond.
Call 911 for Multiple Bee Stings and Fire and Police units will be dispatched. If it is determined that the bees are Africanized Bees, the Public Works Department will arrange for immediate extermination.
For more information on Africanized Bees, visit http://agnewsarchive.tamu.edu/bees/home.htm  |
