Bumble bees are a common sight in gardens and fields, recognized by their fuzzy bodies and distinctive buzzing. These insects play a significant role as pollinators in various ecosystems. Many people wonder if a bumble bee’s sting leaves its stinger embedded in the skin.
The Bumble Bee’s Stinger
Bumble bees generally do not leave their stinger behind when they sting. This distinguishes them from honey bees. The difference lies in the anatomy of their stingers. A bumble bee’s stinger is smooth, resembling a needle, allowing it to be easily retracted from the skin.
In contrast, honey bees possess a barbed stinger. When a honey bee stings a mammal with thick skin, these barbs become lodged, preventing the bee from pulling its stinger back out. As a result, the honey bee’s stinger, along with part of its abdomen and venom sac, is torn away, leading to the bee’s death.
Why Bumble Bees Can Sting More Than Once
Because a bumble bee’s stinger is smooth, it can be withdrawn without fatal injury to the bee. This means a bumble bee can sting, retract its stinger, and potentially sting again if it continues to feel threatened. Only female bumble bees, including workers and queens, possess stingers, as it is a modified egg-laying organ.
When a bumble bee stings, it injects venom, causing immediate pain. Since the stinger remains attached, the venom sac also stays intact. This enables the bee to deliver additional venom if it stings multiple times, though bumble bees are generally not aggressive and typically only sting when provoked or their nest is disturbed.
Responding to a Bumble Bee Sting
Most bumble bee stings result in a localized reaction, characterized by swelling, redness, and itching at the sting site. These symptoms typically appear shortly after the sting or within a few hours and usually subside within a few hours to a few days. To manage these reactions, clean the affected area with mild soap and water.
Applying a cold compress or ice pack can help reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-itch creams may also provide relief. While most stings are not severe, seek medical attention if signs of a severe allergic reaction develop, such as widespread hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, or a rapid pulse. For stings near the mouth or throat, immediate medical evaluation is recommended due to the risk of airway swelling.