Info On Bees

What Is a Swarm?

Usually occurring in the spring or summer, the old queen bee leaves an overcrowded colony with about one-half of the existing worker bees as a reproductive swarm to establish a new colony. They travel a distance away from the original colony and light on a surface. From there, scout bees are sent out to look for an acceptable location for a new colony.

Each scout bee agrees on the site by marking it with a pheromone. Then, the scout bees return to the swarm to bring it to the new location.

This transitioning swarm may land on a tree limb or other surface to rest. It generally remains for less than a day and then it moves on to the new location.

Are they Africanized bees?

Although the Africanized bee is slightly smaller, it's hard to tell the difference between a European and Africanized bee by just looking at the insect. The real difference is in the behavior of the bee. The Africanized variety is much more defensive. Any disturbance or threat to the colony can result in a vicious attack. Africanized bee colonies will inflict many more stings than European honey bees. Once agitated, they remain at a heightened state for an hour or more and may attack any source of movement. This bee will pursue its target for more than a mile. Humans and animals alike are in mortal danger when the Africanized bee colony feels threatened.

Once Africanized bee colonies invade an area, they produce ten times more swarms than the European variety every year. Within a few years, the Africanized bee becomes the dominant strain in every area it invades. Nests in Tucson and Phoenix are at least 98% Africanized.

The discovery of a bee nest or swarm generally creates a real sense of urgency, as they are dangerous pests. You may become anxious about the safety of your family, pets and property, and you will have an immediate desire to exterminate the bees.