Africanized honey bees are bad news. They are often called “killer bees.” They were first noticed in Texas in 1990 and reached California four years later.

While the name “killer” is generally an exaggeration, people who are allergic to bees certainly could receive enough stings to have a fatal reaction. Even if you’re not allergic, the consequences of multiple stings could be drastic. What it does mean is that there will be more incidences of stings, as well as multiple stings. If these bees are provoked, watch out … lots of bees will be coming in your direction.

The Africanized honey bee is similar to the European honey bee that we all recognize. They look the same, and in many instances they react the same, as well. When both bees are busy gathering nectar, they are unlikely to sting you. The Africanized bees will sting when provoked, when they begin producing a wax comb, and when they are raising young.

Africanized bee

Both types of bees will protect their nest. Both can sting only once, both die when they sting, both have the same venom, both pollinate flowers, both produce honey and wax. But the Africanized variety is even more defensive of their nest. Large numbers may respond to a threat, they will respond faster, they will continue to pursue their enemies – even for a quarter of a mile away – and they will react to vibrations of a motor or hammering.

Recently a friend and I were pounding in some rebar and we were attacked over and over again by bees. The bees were in an uproar for most of the day. In fact, we never finished pounding in that rebar.

Around your home or barn, you will need to be more fastidious in removing objects such as pails, cans, boxes, tires, vehicles, lumber and other places they might consider nesting. When you’re inspecting your outdoor areas, listen for the telltale buzzing of lots of bees. Be careful if you hear that constant buzz. You might have a nest, or perhaps a swarm is close by.

I suggest you let a professional beekeeper remove those bees. It’s not a job for an amateur.

Before you use power tools such as a lawnmower, check for bees. Remember that power tools will incite Africanized bees. Teach your children about these bees. If you are allergic, always carry your epi-pen. If you have a neighborhood watch program, include Africanized bees as a subject in your meetings.

Now that we know these bees are in California, it is a good idea to make your home safe. You will need to remove any containers bees might consider a perfect nesting spot. You will often need to inspect your walls, eaves and any sheds or other outbuildings such as barns. You should seal any cracks or other openings greater than one-eighth of an inch. Check for cracks in your chimney and around your pipes. Seal any openings. Open areas such as rainspouts or vents should be covered with hardware cloth or other fine material. If you see bees buzzing around in the same spot around your home, check back and see if they appear in the same area again. They could be nesting in your walls. Call that beekeeper.

If you do encounter bees, get as far away as possible and as quickly as possible. Protect your most sensitive areas such as the eyes and face. If you can get safely to a building or a car, that is the best place to wait until the bees have left.

Stinger

My allergy doctor told me to never swat at bees, as this quick motion will increase the chances of being stung. If you are stung, remove the stinger as quickly as you can. Wash the area that was stung with soap and water if you can. Ice will help to keep the swelling down and will help to ease the pain, as well.

Always seek immediate medical attention if you have multiple stings, if you are allergic to the venom, or if you have breathing problems. If you have seen an allergist and know you are allergic to bee stings, you should always carry an epi-pen and an anti-histamine with you, and know how to use it. If your child is allergic to bees, make sure his or her school is aware of it, and that there is always an epi-pen available at school.

If you or someone is stung by a bee and are having adverse reactions, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1. There is also an Africanized Honey Bee Hotline: 1-800-233-9279.

Be bee-aware and stay safe.

Dianne Erskine-Hellrigel is executive director of the Community Hiking Club and president of the Santa Clara River Watershed Conservancy. Contact Dianne through communityhikingclub.org or at zuliebear@aol.com.