The name "killer bees" is given to Africanized honey bees due to their aggressive nature.Africanized honey bees have spread from Brazil south to Argentina, throughout Central America and north into the United States, after being interbred by a scientist in Brazil in the late 1950s.The physical similarities between Africanized honey bees and their European counterparts make it difficult to determine the difference.
Step 1: There is a difference in size.
There is a slight difference in size between Africanized and European honey bees.AHB are typically 10% smaller than their counterparts, however, this is subtle and can't be seen with the naked eye.The size difference can only be seen using professional measuring instruments.It's not possible to tell the difference on sight.There is a bumble bee in the picture on the left.AHB are very aggressive.You shouldn't approach a hive to get a bee.This should be left to professionals.
Step 2: There are differences in aggression.
European honey bees and AHB respond differently to provocation.All bees will respond aggressively to perceived dangers, but AHB is much more so.A AHB may send hundreds of bees with a range of 120 yards from the hive.This is also shown in the number of sting you can expect if you encounter the hive.If a hive is disturbed, an AHB hive can administer as many as a thousand stings.
Step 3: How long does it take them to calm down?
A hive that is buzzing with aggression will calm down after 20 minutes.AHB can remain aggressive for hours after.
Step 4: Look for bees that are alone or in small groups.
Africanized honey bees are more opportunists than European bees.AHB and EHB tend to wander at different times.When the sun is not shining, AHB can be found early or late in the morning.They are less likely to be discouraged by overcast, cold weather and even light rain, and they are more sensitive to poor temperatures and rain.
Step 5: There are different swarm patterns in AHB.
When a queen leaves a hive and tens of thousands of worker bees follow, it's called swarming.This happens about once a year.AHB will swarm 12 times a year because they have smaller nests that they more readily abandon.AHB are less sought after by bees.It is possible to reduce the population left behind in a hive by constant swarming.AHB swarms are smaller than EHB because of their frequencies.
Step 6: It's a good idea to use DNA testing for certainty.
The common person won't have access to this kind of test, but it is the only way to know if a bee is an AHB.A scientist uses DNA tests to confirm an African bloodline.
Step 7: Where AHB often nest is a good place to look.
EHB nest in dry, aboveground cavities.If you see a hive filled with bees, it is most likely an AHB hive.An AHB nest may be out in the open, hanging from an exposed tree branch, whereas EHB rarely nest in exposed areas.AHB usually nest in smaller places.A typical hive is around 38 liters in size.1 to 5 gallons are in size for AHB.It is more difficult to see AHB nest because they are only seen once provoked.
Step 8: Check the chimney for a nest.
European honey bees won't nest in many places.Other possible sites include empty containers, water meters, abandoned vehicles, old tires, lumber piles, and sheds.
Step 9: Look for bees.
The best time to identify AHB is during March through July.The bees want to reproduce their colonies.Worker bees will follow the queen.
Step 10: Prepare your home for bees.
If you want to avoid a run-in with AHB, make sure they aren't in or around your home.Make sure there are no gaps larger than 8 inch around plumbing or chimneys, as this is a favorite spot for bees.To prevent a bee from fitting through, install screens that are fine.It's a good idea to inspect any openings for bees.
Step 11: Look for nearby water sources.
If you have a drain, tub, or water cooler, bees can use it as a water source.If it's not a water source, add a few ounces of pine-scented cleaner to the water.If it is a bird-bath make sure to add 2 ounces of vinegar to it to make it safe for the birds.
Step 12: Don't try to remove a nest yourself.
With the aggressiveness of AHB, you should never attempt to remove a nest on your own.You can find a pest control company in your local yellow pages.If you want the bees for their own purposes or want a more humane way to remove the colony, you can call a local beekeeper.
Step 13: If AHB becomes aggressive, run away.
Run away as fast as possible.Pull your shirt over your head.They will wait above the water for you if you run towards it.If you run toward a well-lit area, the bees can't see it.As you run, don't swat or flail your arms.The bees may become more aggressive as a result of this movement.Don't physically intervene if you see someone else being attacked.This will make you more at risk of being hurt and less likely to help the person running.
Step 14: Don't pull them.
If you get stung, don't pull the sting out as it will release more venom.The stingers should be removed with a dull knife, finger nail, or credit card.
Step 15: Seek medical attention after being stung.
You may not know how many times you were stung by AHB.If you were stung more than 15 times, seek help immediately.When to seek help include itching, trouble breathing, dizziness, vomiting, and the swelling of your face, tongue or throat.You should get help if you have life threatening symptoms.
Step 16: Minor sting should be treated.
You can help alleviate the symptoms of the venom if you only got stung a few times.Apply hydrocortisone cream to the sting to help reduce swelling and itching.Cool, moist towel or ice can be used to relieve sting site symptoms.Do not apply ice directly to the sting.