It is a common experience to have bees approach you, which can sometimes cause apprehension. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help reduce any unease and promote a more informed interaction with these important insects. This article aims to explain why bees might get close to people, how to distinguish them from other buzzing insects, and what steps to take to ensure a safe and calm encounter.
Common Reasons Bees Approach
Bees are drawn to humans by factors mimicking their natural environment. They are primarily attracted to certain scents, especially floral fragrances from products like perfumes, lotions, and shampoos, which they might confuse for flowers or nectar sources. Sweet food and drinks, such as soda or fruit juice, also act as strong attractants, as bees seek out sugary substances for energy. The bright colors of clothing can also play a role, as bees associate vibrant hues like yellow, blue, and purple with nectar-rich flowers.
Sometimes, a bee might approach out of simple confusion or accidental proximity. They could be disoriented or navigating obstacles, inadvertently flying into a person’s space. Bees may also be drawn to human sweat, particularly by “sweat bees” (halictid bees) seeking salts and hydration.
While bees are not aggressive, their proximity can become defensive if provoked. Bees only sting as a last resort, primarily to protect themselves or their colony. This defensive behavior is triggered by sudden movements, dark colors, or strong smells, which they associate with predators. Alarm pheromones released by a stinging bee can also alert other bees, making them more defensive.
Identifying Bees Versus Wasps
Distinguishing between bees and wasps can help alleviate unnecessary fear, as their appearances and behaviors differ significantly. Bees, such as honey bees and bumblebees, have rounder, fuller bodies covered in fuzzy hairs, which help them collect pollen. Their legs are often stout, and their coloration can range from golden-brown to more amber tones with black stripes. Bees are less aggressive and more focused on foraging for nectar and pollen, often flying in lazy circles around flowers.
In contrast, wasps, including yellowjackets and hornets, possess more slender, smooth, and shiny bodies with narrow waists. Their legs are often less visible during flight. Wasps commonly display vivid yellow and black markings. Wasps are more aggressive and territorial, especially around human food sources, and can sting multiple times because their stingers are not barbed. They exhibit more purposeful or jittery flight patterns, darting around with energy.
What to Do When a Bee is Nearby
When a bee is close by, the most effective response is to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Abrupt actions, like swatting, can provoke the bee and trigger its defensive mechanisms, potentially leading to a sting. Instead, if possible, slowly and calmly move away from the area.
If the bee is attracted to food or drinks you have, gently cover them to remove the attractant. Bees are not inherently looking to sting, but rather to investigate potential food sources or threats.
Minimizing Close Encounters
To reduce the likelihood of bees approaching you, several proactive measures can be taken. Avoid wearing strong scents like perfumes, colognes, scented lotions, and hair products, as these can mimic floral fragrances that attract bees. Bees are drawn to bright colors, particularly yellow, blue, and purple, which they associate with flowers. Opting for light-colored clothing, such as white, light green, or khaki, can make you less appealing to them.
When outdoors, keep food and drinks, especially sweet ones, covered or in sealed containers to prevent their aromas from attracting bees. Tightly covering trash cans also helps to reduce enticing smells. Being aware of your surroundings and checking for signs of bee nests, such as increased bee activity or buzzing sounds around specific areas like eaves, wall cavities, or in the ground, can help you avoid disturbing them.