By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–As spring paints the landscape with vibrant blooms, bees become a common sight, buzzing busily from flower to flower.
While these insects play a crucial role in pollination and agriculture, they can also deliver a painful sting if disturbed. With honey bee swarms and nests more likely to appear this time of year, knowing how to coexist safely is important.
According to the county’s Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures, the public should avoid disturbing bees or their nest. When encountering a swarm or nest, move away calmly and immediately to a safer location. The swarms will emit a distinct buzzing sound. Give the bees space and time to settle.
In San Diego County, the European and Africanized varieties are two common types of honey bees. The European bees are more docile and used in agriculture, while Africanized bees are more defensive and aggressive. The public should contact emergency services if they encounter aggressive swarming and pose an immediate threat to the area.
A bee’s nest is found in eaves, attics, trees, and utility boxes. The nest can be removed by a licensed professional removal service. The county can only remove bees from county-owned or maintained property. The county’s Apiary Program regulates managed bee colonies and promotes responsible beekeeping.
As spring unfolds, let’s appreciate the vital role bees play in our ecosystem while taking precautions to ensure a safe coexistence.
