Why Do Bees Sting People if it Kills Them?

Despite bees’ crucial ecological contributions, many people harbor a fear of bee stings. However, people sometimes don’t realize that bees are docile creatures that won’t usually sting unless absolutely necessary. When bees sting, they will do it to protect themselves or their hive but when they do, they sacrifice themselves and die shortly after stinging. Understanding why bees sting, even when it results in their own death, can help shed light on these important insects and potentially reduce the fear associated with them.

Why Do Bees Sting?

Bees sting primarily as a means of self-defense and to protect their hive. Understanding the reasons behind their stinging behavior can help us coexist peacefully with these important pollinators.

• Self-Defense: Bees sting when they feel threatened. This could happen if you swat at them, try to catch them, or accidentally smother or step on them. The sting is a bee's last resort to protect itself from perceived danger.
• Hive Defense: Bees are highly protective of their hive, which houses their queen, brood, and food stores. If they sense a threat to their hive, they will sting the perceived threat to defend it. This is why it’s crucial to avoid disturbing or getting too close to a beehive.
• Pheromones: When a bee stings, it releases a pheromone that signals other bees to come to its aid. This alarm pheromone can quickly mobilize the colony which can lead to multiple stings if the threat is not removed.

What Type of Bees Sting?

Several types of bees can sting when they feel threatened. Here are some common ones:

• Honeybee: Honeybees are about half an inch long with slender, furry bodies featuring pale yellow or tan stripes. They typically live in hives located in hollow trees, on branches, or in man-made bee boxes. Honeybees die after they sting due to their barbed stingers getting stuck in the skin.
• Bumble Bee: Bumble bees are large, oval-shaped, furry-winged insects with black bodies with yellow stripes. They range from half an inch to 1 inch in length. Bumble bees typically nest in the ground and do not die after stinging.
• Carpenter Bee: Carpenter bees are larger flying insects that measure between 0.75 inches to 1 inch. They have shiny black bodies with yellow hairs on their thorax and are known for nesting in wood. Carpenter bees are fast flyers but only females can sting.
• Sweat Bee: Sweat bees are small, often metallic-colored bees that are attracted to human sweat. They range from 0.12 to 0.5 inches in length. These bees are generally not aggressive but can sting if provoked.
• Africanized Honeybee: These bees are also known as "killer bees." Africanized honey bees are similar in appearance to regular honey bees but are far more aggressive and likely to swarm unprovoked. They tend to sting in large numbers and can be very dangerous if their hive is disturbed.

Understanding the types of bees that can sting and their behavior can help you avoid unnecessary encounters and reduce the risk of being stung.

Do All Bees Die When They Sting?

Not all bees die when they sting, but honeybees do. This is due to the unique structure of their stinger, which has barbs much like a fishhook. When a honeybee stings, the barbed stinger becomes lodged in the skin. As the bee pulls away, the stinger along with venom sac inside of its abdomen is ripped from its body. This fatal injury ultimately leads to the bee's death. However, the detached stinger continues to inject venom into the skin for up to ten minutes which is why it's crucial to remove it promptly.



In contrast, most other bee species do not die after stinging. Bumblebee stingers are smooth which allows them to sting multiple times without losing their stinger or sustaining fatal injuries. The differences in stinger anatomy between honeybees and other bee species highlight the unique defensive mechanisms each has evolved.

Why Do Bees Sting if it Kills Them?

It may seem surprising that bees still sting despite the lethal consequence for themselves, but this behavior is deeply rooted in their instinct to protect the hive. Bees are not aware that stinging will kill them. Their primary objective is to defend their colony, the queen bee, and the hive from perceived threats. The survival of the hive is paramount, and individual bees are willing to sacrifice themselves to ensure the safety and continuity of the colony.

How Common Are Bee Stings?

Bee stings are a common occurrence, especially during warm weather when bees are most active. Anyone who spends time outdoors, particularly near flowers or flowering trees, may encounter bees and potentially get stung if they venture too close to a hive or inadvertently provoke the insects. 

What Increases Your Risk of Being Stung?

Several factors can increase your risk of being stung by bees:

• Proximity to Hives or Nests: Being close to bee hives or nests, whether in gardens, parks, or near flowering trees, significantly increases the likelihood of being stung.
• Outdoor Activities: Engaging in outdoor activities such as gardening, hiking, or playing sports can expose you to areas where bees are active.
• Bright Clothing: Wearing bright colors and floral patterns can attract bees, as they may mistake you for a flower.
• Strong Scents: Perfumes, scented lotions, and hair products can attract bees which increases the risk of stings.
• Harvesting Honey: Beekeepers or those harvesting honey are at a higher risk due to direct interaction with bee colonies.
• Disturbing Hives: Attempting to remove or destroy a beehive or nest can provoke the bees and lead to multiple stings.
• Open Food and Drinks: Bees are attracted to sugary foods and drinks, so consuming these items outdoors can draw bees closer.
• Wearing Loose Clothing: Loose clothing can trap bees between the fabric and your skin which can lead to defensive stings.

Understanding these risk factors can help you take precautions to avoid bee stings and enjoy your outdoor activities safely.

Do Bee Stings Hurt?

Bee stings are known to be painful due to the venom that bees inject when they sting. The pain from a bee sting comes from the toxic effects of the venom which has several components designed to cause immediate pain and deter threats.

The primary pain-causing agents in bee venom include:

• Melittin: A peptide that binds to red blood cells that causes the release of hemoglobin into the blood plasma. Melittin is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent but also contributes significantly to the pain experienced during a bee sting.
• A-Hyaluronidase: This enzyme breaks down cell components and allows the venom to spread more easily throughout the body.
• Phospholipase-A: This enzyme disrupts many important biochemical reactions and causes the breakdown of cells which contributes to the intense pain felt after a sting.

The pain from a bee sting is typically sharp and immediate and often followed by swelling, throbbing, and redness at the sting site. While honeybee and bumble bee venoms are not identical, they share many allergens that cause similar painful reactions. 

Bee Sting Symptoms

Bee stings can cause a variety of symptoms which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of a bee sting can vary with the most common symptoms including:



• Burning pain that radiates from the site of the sting
• Redness and swelling around the sting area
• Itchy skin surrounding the sting
• Skin discoloration where the sting occurred

Bee Sting Allergies

Bee sting allergies can range from mild to severe, with a small percentage of the population experiencing life-threatening reactions known as anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is a result of someone’s severe allergic reaction. This usually requires prompt medical attention otherwise there is a risk of serious complications. Allergic reaction symptoms to a bee sting can include any of the following:



• Hive
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the tongue and throat
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• A rapid pulse
• Dry cough
• Eye irritation
• Tightness in the chest
• Loss of consciousness

Without prompt treatment, anaphylactic shock can be fatal. Individuals with known bee sting allergies should carry an epinephrine autoinjector which can provide a life-saving injection of epinephrine to stimulate the heart and relax the airways.

For those with severe allergies, undergoing a desensitization program can be an effective long-term solution. This process involves receiving a series of venom injections in gradually increasing doses to build up tolerance to bee stings. This program, which can take several months to complete, has a high success rate and significantly reduces the risk of severe reactions to future stings. However, it should always be administered by a registered physician and not attempted independently.

How to Prevent Bee Stings

To prevent bee stings, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautionary measures, especially in areas where bees are active. Here are some effective ways to reduce the risk of getting stung by bees:

• Be cautious with loud equipment: Using loud equipment like lawnmowers near a hive can irritate bees and provoke an attack.
• Avoid wearing flowery perfumes and lotions: Bees are attracted to floral and fruity scents. Opt for unscented products when spending time outdoors.
• Wear light-colored clothing: Bees are less attracted to light-colored clothing compared to dark or brightly colored clothes.
• Stay calm and avoid swatting: Bees are more likely to sting when they feel threatened by sudden movements. If a bee approaches, remain still and calm until it flies away.
• Cover food and drinks: Bees are drawn to sugary foods and drinks. Keep these items covered when outdoors to avoid attracting bees.
• Seal trash cans: Bees can be attracted to garbage so ensure trash cans are tightly sealed and avoid spending time near them.
• Wear shoes outdoors: Many bee stings occur when people accidentally step on bees. Always wear shoes when walking outside, especially in grassy areas.
• Avoid bee hives: If you see a beehive, keep your distance and alert others around you. Contact a professional beekeeper to safely remove the hive if it poses a threat.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of getting stung by bees while enjoying the outdoors.

Are Bee Swarms Dangerous?

Bee swarms can seem intimidating, but they are generally not dangerous. When bees swarm, they are in the process of relocating to a new home. During this transition, they are less likely to sting because they are focused on finding a suitable nesting site and are typically less defensive. Additionally, bees gorge on honey before leaving their old hive which makes them less capable of stinging because they have difficulty bending their abdomens.



While swarms are usually harmless and don't linger for long, they can still cause concern if they settle in an inconvenient location. In such cases, it's best to contact a local beekeeping association. Experienced beekeepers can safely relocate the swarm without harming the bees or posing a threat to people. This approach helps preserve the bee population while ensuring safety and peace of mind for everyone involved.

What Should You Do If You Are Attacked by Bees

When a bee stings, it releases an alarm pheromone that signals danger to other bees. This chemical alert prompts other hive members to become aggressive and join in the defense, often leading to multiple stings on the intruder. This coordinated defense mechanism increases the chances of deterring or eliminating the threat, thus protecting the hive even if some bees lose their lives in the process. The instinct to protect the colony is so strong that it overrides the individual bee's survival which highlights the social and cooperative nature of these insects.

If you are attacked by bees, it is essential to act quickly and follow these steps to minimize the risk of stings and escape the situation safely:

• Stay calm: Panicking can escalate the situation and make the bees more aggressive.
• Cover and protect your head: Use a shirt, jacket, or towel to cover your head and face as bees often target these areas and stings to these areas are far more dangerous as they can lead to swelling of the mouth and throat.
• Run to safety: Move steadily and in a straight line toward a safe location like a building or vehicle where bees cannot follow you.
• Seek shelter: Get inside a sealed environment to prevent bees from entering and to escape the attack.
• Avoid running toward people: Do not run toward others, as this could spread the attack and put more people at risk.
• Do not hide underwater: Bees will wait for you to surface, and you risk drowning. Instead, find an enclosed shelter.
• Keep your clothes on: Removing clothes exposes more skin and increases the chances of getting stung.
• Do not swat at the bees: Swatting can provoke the bees further and release alarm pheromones that attract more bees to the attack.



By following these steps, you can effectively manage the situation and reduce the chances of severe injury from bee stings.

Bee Sting Treatment

When treating a bee sting, it's crucial to act quickly to minimize the effects of the venom. Here are some steps to follow for effective bee sting treatment:

• Remove the stinger: Use a fingernail, credit card, or gauze to gently scrape the stinger out. Avoid using tweezers or your fingers, as squeezing the stinger can inject more venom into the wound. Quick removal is essential to minimize the amount of venom entering your body.
• Clean the wound: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
• Apply ice: Wrap an ice pack in a towel and place it on the sting site to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Elevate the affected area if possible.
• Take an antihistamine: Over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl can help reduce itching and swelling.
• Use pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate pain. Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream can also be applied to ease itching.

Monitor the sting site and keep an eye out for any signs of severe allergic reactions like difficulty breathing or swelling that spreads beyond the sting area. If serious allergic symptoms happen, emergency medical attention is needed immediately.

Contact EcoGuard Pest Management if You Are Dealing with Bees

If you are dealing with bees on your property, it's essential to handle the situation carefully and efficiently. While bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem, their presence can sometimes pose a threat to your safety. Don't take any chances and reach out to the professionals at EcoGuard Pest Management. Our team is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to safely and effectively manage bee infestations, ensuring your home and surroundings are secure. Contact EcoGuard Pest Management today to protect your family and maintain a healthy, bee-free environment.

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