Let's bee sensible

Earlier this year, state agriculture officials announced that Africanized honeybee hives had been found in Washington and Kane counties. The so-called killer bees were discovered recently in a Cedar City home, which means they are inching their way north. Experts say the bees apparently were able to survive conditions at 5,840 feet altitude because they had spent the winter in an insulated attic. They were exterminated and removed without incident on Wednesday.

This discovery has stirred speculation whether the Africanized honeybees have moved closer to the state's urban centers. It's unlikely, but this incident serves as the perfect opportunity to educate Utahns about these so-called killers.

The truth is, any honeybee can be a killer bee. Africanized honeybees actually have less venom than their European counterparts, according to the Utah State University Extension Service. But Africanized honeybees are highly defensive, will sting more readily and pursue intruders longer and farther. Thus, they can inflict 10 times more stings than European honeybees.

They are more likely to swarm, which can mean multiple stings from multiple bees, and they can pursue perceived intruders for up to a quarter mile.

Generally speaking, children and the elderly can tolerate fewer bee stings than healthy adults. Anyone who receives 15 or more bee stings should seek medical attention.

Africanized honeybees escaped from Brazil in the mid-1950s after they were brought there in an attempt to breed bees that would produce more honey in the tropics. Swarms escaped and multiplied, eventually moving through South America, Central America, Mexico and into the United States by 1990.

Aside from their bad attitudes, Africanized honey bees have other traits that make them undesirable to beekeepers. They rob other bee colonies, spreading diseases and parasites. They tend to swarm, taking an entire bee colony with them. They expend more energy on colony reproduction than the collection and storage of food.

Since they are not readily distinguished from European honeybees, significant time may lapse before beekeepers determine the presence of Africanized honeybees, which are capable of reproducing with European bees. This can result in reduced pollination of fruit, vegetable, seed and fiber crops.

Most bees are not aggressive unless they are disturbed. Africanized honeybees, though, can be aroused to attack by disturbances such as lawn mowers, tractors, power tools or other things that make loud sounds or vibrations.

Being aware of bees is the best line of defense. Then, give them a wide berth. If they attack, try to outrun them and seek shelter in an enclosure. It is best not to flail or swipe at pursuing bees because it further agitates them. Jumping into water is not recommended because bees can swarm longer than most people can hold their breath.

People who want to exterminate aggressive bees should seek the help of professionals. Contact the Utah Department of Agriculture for more information and referrals at 801-538-7123 or ag.utah.gov.