Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) do sting, primarily as a defense mechanism. Their unique stinging apparatus leads to specific outcomes for both the bee and the recipient. Understanding this behavior helps in interacting with them safely.
How Honey Bees Sting
The worker Western honey bee’s stinger is a specialized, barbed organ. It consists of a stylus and two barbed lancets that alternate, driving the stinger deeper into the skin. Once embedded, the barbs prevent the bee from pulling it out. As the bee attempts to fly away, the stinger, venom sac, and a portion of its internal organs are torn from its body.
This act, known as autotomy, results in the bee’s death shortly after stinging. The detached venom sac continues to pump venom into the wound, so quick removal of the stinger is advised to minimize injection. This self-sacrifice distinguishes honey bees from other stinging insects like wasps, which have smooth stingers and can sting multiple times without dying.
Why Honey Bees Sting
Western honey bees sting primarily for defense, not aggression. Their sting serves as a last resort to protect themselves or their colony from perceived threats. Worker bees, especially guard bees, are more prone to stinging when a hive is disturbed. Threats include vibrations, loud noises, or direct disturbance.
Bees may also sting if they feel trapped or crushed. Foraging bees are less likely to sting unless directly provoked, such as being stepped on or swatted. When a honey bee stings, it releases an alarm pheromone, a chemical signal that alerts other bees to danger and encourages them to join the defense. This collective response helps protect the hive’s stored food and developing young.
Reducing Your Risk of Stings
To minimize sting risk, understand bee behavior and take simple precautions. If a bee approaches, remain calm and move slowly; sudden movements like swatting can provoke a sting. Bees are attracted to certain colors and scents. Wear light-colored, smooth clothing and avoid strong perfumes or floral-scented products. Bright colors, particularly blues, purples, and yellows, can attract bees as they associate these with flowers.
Bees are drawn to sugary foods and drinks, so keep food covered outdoors and promptly clean up spills. Avoid areas with a high concentration of flowering plants. Never disturb an active bee hive or nest, as this will likely provoke a defensive reaction from the colony.