Understanding and Controlling Africanized Bees
Are you one of the many homeowners who have come across a swarm of Africanized bees? While African bees are native to various parts of Africa, with some species being high in honey production, the Africanized bees pose a significant threat. These bees are the result of a hybridization experiment that went awry, leading to a highly aggressive and dangerous strain of bees.
Introduction to African Bees
There are various species of bees in Africa, with some known for their superior honey production capabilities. However, the term 'African' typically refers to the bee species Apis mellifera scutellata, commonly known as the Africanized bee. These bees are capable of producing large quantities of honey while also being extremely hostile to both animals and humans.
The Origin of Africanized Bees
The story of Africanized bees begins with Brazilian entomologist Joaquim Candido Westerdal in the 1950s. His goal was to develop honeybees that could produce more honey. He imported a honeybee colony from Africa and combined it with local Brazilian bees to create a hybrid. The result was a colony that produced more honey but was highly aggressive. Accidentally, some of these bees escaped and established themselves in the wild, leading to the creation of the Africanized bees that we know today.
Geographic Spread of Africanized Bees
Over the years, Africanized bees have gradually spread northward, establishing themselves in regions like northern Mexico and some areas in the southern USA. This has made them a significant concern for residents in these areas as they can cause injuries and fatalities, mainly due to their aggressive behavior.
Identifying Africanized Bees
Not everyone is familiar with Africanized bees. These bees are often confused with regular honeybees. Africanized bees can be identified by their appearance and behavior. They are smaller and have a more streamlined appearance compared to European honeybees. In terms of behavior, Africanized bees are highly aggressive and will attack in large numbers, often in response to any perceived threat.
Managing and Controlling Africanized Bees
Despite the risks associated with Africanized bees, there are effective ways to manage and control them. If you suspect you have a colony of Africanized bees on your property, it is important not to attempt to remove them yourself. There is a significant risk of personal injury, and untrained individuals may inadvertently provoke the bees, leading to dangerous situations.
If you believe you have a colony of Africanized bees, it is best to contact a professional beekeeper who specializes in eradicating these bees. These professionals wear heavy protective gear and have the expertise to identify and safely remove the bees. If the bees are simply a colony of regular honeybees causing minor irritation, a regular beekeeper can be contacted to relocate them to a more appropriate location.
The relocation process involves capturing the bees and moving them to a beekeeper's own yard, where they can continue to produce honey and contribute to the ecosystem. Effective communication with the professional beekeeper is essential to ensure a safe and successful relocation.
Conclusion
Africanized bees present a significant threat due to their aggressive nature and potential to cause harm. However, with the right knowledge and assistance from professional beekeepers, it is possible to manage and control these bees safely. If you encounter a colony of bees that could be Africanized, prioritize your safety and seek professional help to ensure the protection of both you and the bees.