If you’ve lived in Arizona for any length of time, you’ve probably heard of “killer bees.” Officially known as Africanized honey bees, these aggressive pollinators have made their home throughout much of the Southwest, including right here in Phoenix. And while they may look like your average honey bee, Africanized bees are anything but ordinary. In this post, we’ll break down where they come from, why they’re a concern, how to spot an Africanized bee hive, and what to do if you encounter one.
Africanized bees are a hybrid species created in the 1950s by crossbreeding various Apis mellifera subspecies, specifically the African subspecies Apis mellifera scutellata, with European honey bees in Brazil.
The goal was to increase honey production, but the result was a more aggressive and territorial bee. After their creation, Africanized honey bees first spread throughout South America and Central America before reaching the southern United States. By the 1990s, these killer bees made their way into the southern United States, with Phoenix and other parts of Arizona becoming major hotspots.
Phoenix’s hot desert environment makes it a prime location for these killer bees. In fact, Africanized bees in the U.S. are more prevalent in Arizona than in most states, with numerous feral colonies of Africanized bees established in the wild. Local pest control teams respond to calls regularly for hive removal.
Africanized honey bees and European honey bees may look similar, but their behavior and impact on the bee world are quite different. Africanized honey bees are known for their highly defensive behavior, reacting more aggressively and in greater numbers than their European counterparts when their colonies are disturbed.
This heightened defensiveness is a result of their origins in tropical African regions, where they evolved to protect their hives from frequent threats. In contrast, European honeybees, which include the popular Italian honeybee, are generally more docile and easier for beekeepers to manage.
Another key difference is in their resilience. Africanized honey bees are more resistant to certain pests and diseases that can devastate European honey bee colonies, making them hardier in challenging environments. However, Africanized bees are also more likely to swarm or abandon their hives, making it more difficult for beekeepers to maintain stable colonies and consistent honey production.
Distinguishing Africanized bees from European honey bees is challenging because they appear nearly identical. However, their behavior can offer some clues:
If you discover a nest and wonder if it’s an Africanized honey bee, it’s best to assume it could be and keep your distance.
Though beneficial to ecosystems in many ways, Africanized bees cause serious problems when they nest too close to people:
The defensive behavior of Africanized honey bees is one of their most defining and challenging traits. When a colony feels threatened, guard bees quickly release alarm pheromones, signaling the entire colony to defend the hive. This can result in hundreds of bees mobilizing to attack a perceived threat, far more than what you’d see with other bees.
Environmental factors also play a role. Hot, dry conditions, common in Phoenix, can make Africanized honey bees even more reactive. The presence of predators or disturbances near their nesting site can trigger a rapid and intense response. Because of this, it’s important to treat any wild bee colonies with caution and avoid provoking these highly defensive bees. Understanding their defensive behavior helps both beekeepers and the public stay safe and manage honey bee colonies more effectively.
Looking for an Africanized honey bee hive or African honey bee nest? Here’s what you can watch for:
Established colonies of Africanized bees can be harder to remove than new swarms and may require special equipment. Beekeepers often use queen excluders to manage hive populations and prevent uncontrolled swarming.
If you find a hive, don’t disturb it. Africanized bees are highly reactive and can swarm in seconds.
Your best move? Call a professional. Bee removal is not a DIY task, especially when dealing with Africanized colonies. At EcoGuard Pest Control, we’re trained in the safe, humane removal of bee hives in and around Phoenix. We’ll identify whether the bees are Africanized and use the proper protective equipment to eliminate the threat and prevent it from returning.
If you ever find yourself under attack by Africanized honey bees, quick action is crucial. The first thing to remember is not to swat at the bees; this only agitates them further. Instead, cover your face and neck with your hands or a piece of clothing to protect sensitive areas from stings. Move as quickly as possible to a safe location, such as a car or building, and close the doors and windows behind you to keep bees out.
Once you’re safe, remove any embedded stingers by scraping them out with your fingernail or a credit card. Wash the stung areas with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
If you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness, seek medical help immediately. These are signs of a severe allergic reaction. Remember, the best way to avoid bee stings is to steer clear of hives and call professionals for help with bee removal.
Coexisting with Africanized bees in Phoenix means staying informed and taking practical steps to reduce risks. Homeowners should regularly inspect their property for nesting sites. Hives might be found in wall voids, sheds, or junk piles. Always seal any gaps or holes where bees or other pests might establish a hive. Keeping outdoor areas clean and free of food scraps or open trash cans can also deter bees from settling nearby.
Whether you’re searching for info on killer bees, wondering about the origin of Africanized bees, or dealing with a possible hive in your backyard, EcoGuard Pest Control is here to help.
Our local team understands the unique challenges of bee infestations in the Valley. If you suspect a hive nearby, don’t take risks. Contact us today for fast, effective, and responsible bee removal services.
Ecoguard Pest Control © 2022