Bees

What Are Africanized Killer Bees?

The Africanized bee is a hybrid species of the Western honey bee. These so-called “killer” bees were established when bees from southern Africa and local Brazilian honey bees mated. The Africanized bee was first identified in Brazil in the 1950s, but it quickly spread through Central and South America after a handful of swarms escaped quarantine. The first Africanized bees in the United States were discovered in 1985 at an oil field in California. Then, in 1990, the first permanent Africanized bee colonies arrived in Texas from Mexico. Today, Africanized honey bees are found in southern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, western Louisiana, southern Arkansas, and central and southern Florida. Africanized honey bees are dangerous stinging insects that have been known to chase people for more than a quarter of a mile once they get excited and aggressive. This is why they earned the nickname “killer bee.”

Habitats
Hollow trees and logs
Roof eaves, attics, and wall voids
Under decks and porches
Abandoned rodent burrows or underground spaces
Behavior & Characteristics
Social species (like honey bees and bumblebees) live in colonies; carpenter bees are solitary
Protective of their nests and will sting when threatened
Active during the day, especially in warm weather
Pollinate flowers, fruits, and crops but can become aggressive when disturbed
Health Risks
Bee stings can cause pain, swelling, and redness
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may require emergency medical attention
Multiple stings from swarms can be dangerous, particularly to children, pets, and the elderly
Signs of Infestation
Visible swarms near a structure
Buzzing sounds within walls or attics
Wax combs or honey dripping from walls or ceilings
Small holes in wood (from carpenter bees)
Prevention Tips
Seal gaps, cracks, and holes in siding, roofs, and eaves
Keep outdoor garbage cans sealed to avoid attracting foraging bees
Trim shrubs, trees, and vegetation close to buildings
Inspect and maintain wood surfaces to deter carpenter bees
Treatment Options
Professional bee removal services (especially for honey bee colonies)
Relocation methods to preserve pollinators when possible
Carpenter bee traps or insecticidal dusts for wood-boring bees
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for safe, long-term solutions

Here we would link to your pest control services page and contact page.
Interesting Facts
Honey bees can recognize human faces
A single bee colony can contain up to 60,000 individuals
Carpenter bees resemble bumblebees but have smooth, shiny abdomens
Bees communicate through a “waggle dance” to direct others to food sources

FAQs
Q1: Why are bees nesting in my home?
Bees seek sheltered areas such as wall voids, attics, and roof eaves to establish their hives, especially during warm months.
Q2: Are bees dangerous?
While bees are generally not aggressive when left alone, they will defend their nests if threatened. For those allergic to stings, even one sting can be dangerous.
Q3: Can I remove bees myself?
It is not recommended. Disturbing a hive can provoke swarming and multiple stings. Always contact a licensed pest control professional for safe removal.