Field Guide to Venomous and Medically Important Invertebrates ...

the victim. Similar objects, or even a fingernail, can be used to remove single stings as this
minimizes squeezing additional venom into the wound. Systemic antihistamines and cold
compresses can be used to treat stinging victims under normal conditions, but, for individuals
who experience allergic reactions, the stings may require emergency medical treatment.
Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to bee stings should carry Epi-pens, or similar
devices, at all times when under field conditions.
Africanized bees, or killer bees, are a subspecies or genetic strain of honey bee that are more
aggressive and will fiercely attack any perceived threat. Because Africanized bees are so
aggressive, they can be extremely dangerous and victims may receive literally hundreds of stings
if they are unable to flee. Victims can die from the toxic effects of such a large number of
stings. The most appropriate response to an attack by Africanized bees is to run, if possible,
through brushy or wooded areas because this breaks up their search image making it easier to
elude them. Because Africanized bees will pursue a victim for substantial distances (up to 2
miles or 3 km), the victim should flee the attack until they can reach the safety of a house or
other building, vehicle, or other closed space. Jumping into water for protection is not advised
because the bees will stay in the area searching for their victim for up to an hour which is
substantially longer than the average person can swim or hold their breath under water.
Figure 99. Honey bee (Apis mellifera). Photo: John Moore.
Figure 100. Honey bees on hive. Photo: Carl Dennis.
Figure 101. Swarm of honey bees. Photo: source unknown.