Bees die when they sting due to the barbed structure of their stinger, which gets lodged in the skin of mammals; find out why and what happens next on WHY.EDU.VN. This process results in a fatal abdominal rupture, causing the bee’s demise. Let’s delve into the stinging mechanism, understand the anatomy behind it, and explore the roles of different bees within a hive, including the worker bees. Discover more fascinating insights and expert knowledge by visiting WHY.EDU.VN today for in-depth articles on insect behavior and defense mechanisms.
1. What Happens When a Bee Stings?
When a bee stings, it is a suicidal act for the bee. The stinger is designed in such a way that it becomes embedded in the skin, and the bee cannot retract it without causing fatal injury to itself.
1.1. The Gruesome Death of a Honeybee
The honeybee’s stinger is uniquely structured. Once it pierces the skin, particularly the thicker skin of mammals, the bee cannot pull it out without causing severe internal damage.
1.2. Self-Amputation and Abdominal Rupture
As the honeybee tries to withdraw its stinger, it ends up rupturing its lower abdomen. This results in the bee leaving behind the stinger, along with a string of digestive material, muscles, glands, and a venom sac.
1.3. The Resulting Gaping Hole
The self-amputation leaves the honeybee with a significant, gaping hole at the end of its abdomen, leading to its inevitable death.
2. What is the Anatomy of a Bee Stinger?
The bee stinger consists of several key components that contribute to its function and the subsequent death of the bee.
2.1. Hollow and Pointed Structure
Like a hypodermic needle, the honeybee stinger is hollow and pointed, designed for easy penetration.
2.2. Saw-Toothed Blades or Lancets
The stinger has two rows of lancets, or saw-toothed blades. These blades are barbed and face outward, resembling a harpoon.
2.3. How the Blades Work
As the bee stings, these blades alternate, scissoring together into the flesh. This mechanism makes the stinger function like a screw anchor, ensuring it remains firmly in place.
2.4. Connection to the Venom Sac
Muscles connect the stinger to a venom sac, which pumps a cell-destroying toxin into the wound. This venom causes pain and irritation.
3. Why Can’t Bees Retract Their Stingers?
The barbed structure of the stinger makes it impossible for the bee to retract it from the skin of mammals, leading to its death.
3.1. The Barbed Shape of the Lancets
The lancets are barbed, meaning they have tiny hooks that point outwards. These barbs anchor the stinger firmly in the skin.
3.2. The Screw Anchor Mechanism
Once the stinger is embedded, it acts like a screw anchor, making it impossible to pull straight out.
3.3. The Difference with Wasp Stingers
Unlike honeybees, wasps and bumblebees have smoother stingers without these barbs. This allows them to sting multiple times without self-harm.
4. What is the Role of the Venom?
The venom injected by a bee stinger serves as a defense mechanism and triggers a response that alerts other bees.
4.1. Cell-Destroying Toxin
The venom contains a cell-destroying toxin that causes pain and swelling in the victim.
4.2. Alarm Pheromones
The venom releases an alarm pheromone that signals a threat to the hive. This pheromone smells like bananas, alerting other bees to the danger.
4.3. Alerting Other Bees
The scent of the venom acts as a signal, prompting other bees to defend the hive against the perceived threat.
5. Which Bees Can Sting and Why?
Not all bees can sting, and those that can have specific roles and reasons for doing so.
5.1. Female Worker Bees
Only female honeybees, also known as worker bees, can sting. These bees are infertile and dedicated to gathering nectar, pollinating, and defending the hive.
5.2. The Queen Bee
The queen bee will only sting when fighting for dominance against another queen. Her primary role is to lay eggs and ensure the continuation of the colony.
5.3. Male Drones
Male drones do not have stingers. Their primary function is to fertilize the queen’s eggs.
6. Why Are Honeybees Docile?
Compared to other stinging insects like wasps and hornets, honeybees are generally more docile.
6.1. Attacking Only When Threatened
Honeybees typically only attack when they feel threatened or when their hive is in danger.
6.2. Disposable Soldiers for the Colony
Worker bees are considered disposable soldiers for the colony, willing to sacrifice themselves to protect the hive.
6.3. Differences in Aggression
Wasps and hornets are known to be more aggressive and will sting more readily, while honeybees are more reserved and defensive.
7. What Are Some Interesting Facts About Bee Stings?
Bee stings have several fascinating aspects, from the scent they emit to the effects they have on the victim.
7.1. The Banana Scent
The alarm pheromone released by honeybees when they sting smells like bananas.
7.2. The Number of Bees in a Hive
Each hive contains approximately 60,000 worker bees, a few hundred male drones, and a single female queen bee.
7.3. The Queen’s Role
The queen bee is the sole fertile female in the hive, responsible for laying all the eggs.
8. What Are The Medical Implications of Bee Stings?
Bee stings can cause various reactions, from mild discomfort to severe allergic reactions.
8.1. Local Reactions
Most people experience local reactions to bee stings, including pain, swelling, redness, and itching at the site of the sting.
8.2. Allergic Reactions
Some individuals are allergic to bee venom and can experience severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis.
8.3. Anaphylaxis Symptoms
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face and throat, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
8.4. Treatment for Bee Stings
Treatment for bee stings includes washing the area with soap and water, applying a cold compress, and taking antihistamines or pain relievers. Individuals with severe allergies may require an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen).
9. How to Avoid Bee Stings?
Taking precautions can help minimize the risk of bee stings.
9.1. Avoid Attracting Bees
Avoid wearing bright colors or floral patterns, which can attract bees.
9.2. Stay Calm
If a bee approaches, remain calm and avoid sudden movements.
9.3. Avoid Strong Scents
Avoid wearing strong perfumes or scented lotions, which can attract bees.
9.4. Be Careful Around Flowers
Be cautious when walking through gardens or areas with flowering plants.
10. How Does Bee Venom Research Contribute to Medicine?
Bee venom has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties in treating various medical conditions.
10.1. Multiple Sclerosis
Some studies suggest that bee venom therapy may help reduce symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
10.2. Arthritis
Bee venom has anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve symptoms of arthritis.
10.3. Cancer
Research is being conducted to explore the potential of bee venom in cancer treatment.
10.4. Pain Management
Bee venom is being studied for its potential in managing chronic pain conditions.
11. What Are the Ecological Impacts of Bee Decline?
The decline in bee populations has significant ecological and economic implications.
11.1. Pollination
Bees are essential pollinators for many crops and wild plants.
11.2. Food Security
The decline in bee populations threatens food security, as many crops rely on bee pollination.
11.3. Biodiversity
Bee decline can lead to a loss of biodiversity, as many plant species depend on bees for reproduction.
11.4. Economic Impacts
The decline in bee populations can have significant economic impacts on agriculture and related industries.
12. What Are the Conservation Efforts for Bees?
Various conservation efforts are underway to protect bee populations and promote their health.
12.1. Habitat Restoration
Restoring and protecting bee habitats is crucial for their survival.
12.2. Reducing Pesticide Use
Reducing the use of pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, can help protect bees from harmful chemicals.
12.3. Promoting Bee-Friendly Practices
Promoting bee-friendly gardening and agricultural practices can support bee populations.
12.4. Research and Monitoring
Continued research and monitoring are essential for understanding bee populations and developing effective conservation strategies.
13. How Does Climate Change Affect Bees?
Climate change poses significant threats to bee populations and their habitats.
13.1. Habitat Loss
Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can lead to habitat loss for bees.
13.2. Disrupting Foraging Patterns
Climate change can disrupt the timing of flowering and bee foraging patterns.
13.3. Increased Stress
Changes in climate can increase stress on bee populations, making them more vulnerable to diseases and pests.
13.4. Altered Plant-Bee Interactions
Climate change can alter the interactions between bees and the plants they depend on for food.
14. What is the Social Structure of a Beehive?
The social structure of a beehive is highly organized, with each member having a specific role.
14.1. The Queen Bee
The queen bee is the central figure in the hive, responsible for laying all the eggs.
14.2. Worker Bees
Worker bees perform various tasks, including foraging for food, building and maintaining the hive, and caring for the young.
14.3. Drones
Drones are male bees whose primary function is to fertilize the queen’s eggs.
14.4. Division of Labor
The division of labor within the hive ensures the smooth functioning and survival of the colony.
15. How Do Bees Communicate?
Bees use various methods to communicate with each other, including dances, pheromones, and sound.
15.1. The Waggle Dance
The waggle dance is used to communicate the location and distance of food sources to other bees.
15.2. Pheromones
Bees use pheromones to communicate various messages, including alarm signals and mating signals.
15.3. Sound
Bees can produce sounds that communicate information about the hive’s status and needs.
16. What Are the Different Types of Bees?
There are thousands of different species of bees, each with unique characteristics and roles.
16.1. Honeybees
Honeybees are known for their honey production and social behavior.
16.2. Bumblebees
Bumblebees are larger and hairier than honeybees and are important pollinators of many crops.
16.3. Solitary Bees
Solitary bees live alone and do not form colonies. They are often highly efficient pollinators.
16.4. Stingless Bees
Stingless bees are found in tropical regions and produce honey and pollen.
17. What Role Do Bees Play in Agriculture?
Bees play a crucial role in agriculture by pollinating crops and ensuring food production.
17.1. Crop Pollination
Bees pollinate a wide variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
17.2. Increasing Yields
Bee pollination can increase crop yields and improve the quality of produce.
17.3. Economic Value
The economic value of bee pollination is estimated to be billions of dollars annually.
17.4. Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
Promoting bee-friendly practices can support sustainable agriculture and ensure food security.
18. How Do Beekeepers Protect Bees From Diseases and Pests?
Beekeepers use various methods to protect their bees from diseases and pests.
18.1. Monitoring Hives
Regularly monitoring hives for signs of disease and pests is crucial.
18.2. Using Medications
Beekeepers may use medications to treat bee diseases and control pests.
18.3. Maintaining Hive Hygiene
Keeping hives clean and well-maintained can help prevent the spread of diseases.
18.4. Promoting Genetic Diversity
Promoting genetic diversity in bee populations can improve their resistance to diseases and pests.
19. What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Bees?
There are several common misconceptions about bees that are important to clarify.
19.1. All Bees Make Honey
Not all bees make honey; only honeybees produce honey.
19.2. Bees Only Live for a Day
Worker bees live for several weeks to months, depending on the season.
19.3. Bees Are Aggressive
Bees are generally docile and only sting when they feel threatened.
19.4. All Bees Live in Hives
Many bee species are solitary and do not live in hives.
20. What is the Future of Bee Research?
Bee research continues to evolve, with new studies exploring various aspects of bee biology and conservation.
20.1. Genomics
Genomic research is helping scientists understand bee genetics and develop strategies for improving bee health.
20.2. Disease Resistance
Research is focused on identifying and breeding bees that are resistant to diseases and pests.
20.3. Climate Change Adaptation
Studies are exploring how bees can adapt to climate change and continue to thrive.
20.4. Sustainable Beekeeping Practices
Research is promoting sustainable beekeeping practices that support bee health and productivity.
21. The Honeybee Stinging Mechanism: A Closer Look
Understanding the intricate details of the honeybee stinging mechanism is crucial for appreciating the self-sacrificing nature of these essential pollinators. The act of stinging is not merely a defense mechanism but a final act of protection for the hive.
21.1. The Role of the Barbs
The barbs on the lancets are the primary reason why the stinger gets lodged in the skin. These tiny hooks act like anchors, preventing the bee from pulling the stinger out without causing severe damage.
21.2. The Venom Sac and Its Contents
The venom sac contains a complex mixture of toxins, enzymes, and peptides that cause pain and inflammation. This venom also contains alarm pheromones, which alert other bees to the presence of a threat.
21.3. The Muscles Involved
Several muscles work together to drive the stinger into the skin and pump venom. These muscles contract rhythmically, ensuring that the venom is delivered effectively.
21.4. The Impact of Skin Thickness
The thickness of the skin plays a significant role in whether the stinger gets embedded. Bees are more likely to lose their stingers when stinging mammals with thick skin compared to other insects.
22. The Evolutionary Significance of the Stinging Behavior
The self-sacrificing stinging behavior of honeybees has significant evolutionary implications for the survival of the colony.
22.1. Protecting the Hive
The primary purpose of the stinging behavior is to protect the hive from predators and other threats. By sacrificing themselves, worker bees can deter potential enemies and ensure the survival of the colony.
22.2. Colony Survival
The stinging behavior enhances the overall fitness of the colony, as it allows the bees to defend their resources and offspring. This, in turn, increases the likelihood of the colony’s long-term survival.
22.3. Kin Selection
The concept of kin selection suggests that altruistic behaviors, such as the stinging behavior of honeybees, can evolve if they benefit the bee’s relatives. Since worker bees are closely related, sacrificing themselves to protect the hive can indirectly promote the survival of their genes.
22.4. Group Defense
The coordinated defense of the hive by worker bees demonstrates the power of group behavior in ensuring survival. By working together, the bees can effectively ward off threats that would otherwise overwhelm them.
23. The Role of the Queen Bee in the Stinging Decision
While worker bees are the ones who typically sting, the queen bee plays a crucial role in the overall defense strategy of the hive.
23.1. Laying Eggs
The queen bee’s primary role is to lay eggs and ensure the continuation of the colony. Her reproductive capacity is essential for the hive’s survival.
23.2. Producing Pheromones
The queen bee produces pheromones that regulate the behavior of the worker bees. These pheromones help maintain social order and coordinate activities within the hive.
23.3. Stinging Behavior
In rare cases, the queen bee may sting another queen bee during fights for dominance. This behavior is critical for establishing and maintaining her control over the colony.
23.4. Overall Strategy
The queen bee’s role in the stinging decision is indirect but significant. By ensuring the hive’s overall health and stability, she contributes to the effectiveness of its defense strategy.
24. Comparison of Honeybee Stings vs. Other Insect Stings
Understanding the differences between honeybee stings and those of other insects, such as wasps and hornets, can help people better understand the risks and reactions associated with each.
24.1. Honeybee Stings
Honeybee stings are characterized by the barbed stinger that gets lodged in the skin, leading to the bee’s death. The venom causes localized pain, swelling, and itching.
24.2. Wasp Stings
Wasp stings are typically more painful than honeybee stings, and wasps can sting multiple times without harming themselves.
24.3. Hornet Stings
Hornet stings are also more painful than honeybee stings, and hornets can deliver a larger dose of venom.
24.4. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can occur with any type of insect sting, but the severity of the reaction can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity and the type of venom.
25. The Impact of Bee Stings on the Ecosystem
While bee stings can be painful and sometimes dangerous, they also play a role in the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.
25.1. Defense Mechanism
The stinging behavior is an essential defense mechanism that helps protect bee colonies from predators and other threats.
25.2. Pollination
Bees are essential pollinators, and their survival is critical for the reproduction of many plant species.
25.3. Ecosystem Health
By contributing to the pollination of plants, bees play a vital role in maintaining the health and diversity of ecosystems.
25.4. Maintaining Balance
The presence of bees helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem by supporting plant life and providing food for other animals.
26. First Aid Treatment of Bee Stings
Knowing how to properly treat a bee sting can help minimize discomfort and prevent more severe reactions.
26.1. Remove the Stinger
The first step in treating a bee sting is to remove the stinger as quickly as possible. Use a flat, blunt object, such as a credit card, to scrape the stinger out.
26.2. Wash the Area
Wash the affected area with soap and water to prevent infection.
26.3. Apply a Cold Compress
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
26.4. Take Antihistamines
Take an antihistamine to relieve itching and reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
26.5. Seek Medical Attention
If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately.
27. Debunking Myths About Bee Stings
There are several myths about bee stings that are important to dispel to promote accurate knowledge and safety.
27.1. Myth: Bees Always Die When They Sting
While honeybees do die when they sting mammals, other types of bees and insects can sting multiple times without harming themselves.
27.2. Myth: All Bee Stings Are Deadly
While bee stings can be dangerous for people with allergies, most people experience only localized reactions.
27.3. Myth: You Should Squeeze the Stinger Out
Squeezing the stinger can release more venom into the skin, so it is best to scrape it out.
27.4. Myth: Bee Stings Are Only Painful
Bee stings can cause a variety of reactions, including pain, swelling, itching, and, in severe cases, allergic reactions.
28. How Do Scientists Study Bee Stings?
Scientists use various methods to study bee stings and their effects on both bees and their victims.
28.1. Venom Analysis
Scientists analyze bee venom to identify its components and understand their effects on the body.
28.2. Behavioral Studies
Scientists conduct behavioral studies to observe how bees react to threats and how they use their stingers.
28.3. Microscopic Imaging
Microscopic imaging techniques are used to examine the structure of the stinger and its barbs.
28.4. Genetic Research
Genetic research is helping scientists understand the genes that control the stinging behavior of bees.
29. What Happens Inside the Bee After It Stings?
The internal consequences for a honeybee after stinging are severe and lead to its inevitable death.
29.1. Abdominal Rupture
The primary cause of death is the rupture of the bee’s abdomen, which occurs when it tries to pull the barbed stinger out of the skin.
29.2. Loss of Vital Organs
The bee loses vital organs, including parts of its digestive system, muscles, and glands, which are attached to the stinger.
29.3. Internal Damage
The internal damage is so severe that the bee cannot survive, even if it manages to detach the stinger.
29.4. Inability to Function
The bee is left with a gaping hole in its abdomen, making it impossible to function normally.
30. The Future of Bee Stings and Their Impact on Humans
The future of bee stings and their impact on humans depends on various factors, including climate change, conservation efforts, and medical advancements.
30.1. Climate Change
Climate change poses a significant threat to bee populations, which could lead to changes in the frequency and severity of bee stings.
30.2. Conservation Efforts
Effective conservation efforts are needed to protect bee populations and ensure their survival.
30.3. Medical Advancements
Medical advancements are improving the treatment of bee stings and reducing the risk of severe allergic reactions.
30.4. Human Impact
Human activities, such as pesticide use and habitat destruction, continue to impact bee populations and their interactions with humans.
31. The Psychology Behind Bee Stings
Understanding the psychology behind bee stings can shed light on the motivations and behaviors of both bees and humans.
31.1. Bee Behavior
Bees are motivated to protect their hive and offspring, even at the cost of their own lives.
31.2. Human Reactions
Human reactions to bee stings are influenced by a variety of factors, including fear, pain, and previous experiences.
31.3. Fear of Bees
Many people have a fear of bees, which can lead to exaggerated reactions to bee stings.
31.4. Understanding Behavior
Understanding the psychology behind bee stings can help people better manage their fear and react appropriately in encounters with bees.
32. A Comparative Study of Bee Venom Across Species
Bee venom composition and potency can vary significantly across different bee species, influencing the severity and effects of their stings.
32.1. Venom Composition
The venom of different bee species contains a variety of compounds, including toxins, enzymes, and peptides.
32.2. Potency
The potency of bee venom can vary depending on the species, age, and health of the bee.
32.3. Effects on Humans
The effects of bee venom on humans can range from localized pain and swelling to severe allergic reactions.
32.4. Research
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the composition and effects of bee venom across different species.
33. The Economic Significance of Bees and Their Stings
Bees play a crucial role in the economy, and their stings can have both positive and negative economic impacts.
33.1. Pollination
Bees are essential pollinators, and their pollination services contribute billions of dollars to the economy each year.
33.2. Honey Production
Bees produce honey, which is a valuable commodity that is traded worldwide.
33.3. Medical Uses
Bee venom has medical uses, and the production and sale of bee venom contribute to the economy.
33.4. Negative Impacts
Bee stings can have negative economic impacts, such as healthcare costs and lost productivity.
34. How to Support Local Beekeepers and Bee Conservation
Supporting local beekeepers and bee conservation efforts is essential for protecting bee populations and ensuring the health of the ecosystem.
34.1. Buy Local Honey
Buying local honey supports local beekeepers and helps them continue their work.
34.2. Plant Bee-Friendly Gardens
Planting bee-friendly gardens provides bees with food and habitat.
34.3. Avoid Pesticides
Avoiding pesticides protects bees from harmful chemicals.
34.4. Support Conservation Organizations
Supporting bee conservation organizations helps fund research and conservation efforts.
35. What Happens if a Bee Stings Another Bee?
Bee stings are primarily a defense mechanism against mammals and other threats, but what happens when a bee stings another bee?
35.1. Cuticular Differences
Bees have a different type of exoskeleton, called a cuticle, that protects them from other bees’ stingers.
35.2. Aggression
Worker bees will often kill bees from other colonies if those bees are seen as a threat.
35.3. Queen Bee Fights
There have been rare cases when a queen bee will sting another queen bee, but this is very rare.
35.4. Hive Mentality
Ultimately, a bee’s main purpose is to protect the hive and the queen.
36. The Evolutionary Biology Behind Bee Stinging
To fully understand why bees die after stinging, one must analyze how this evolutionary trait came to fruition.
36.1. Barbed Stingers
Bee stingers evolved over millions of years into what they are today. This includes the barbed and harpoon-like structure.
36.2. Defensive Mechanism
Because bees are small and helpless on their own, they need to be able to defend their colony as a unit.
36.3. Protecting Resources
Bee colonies are a precious resource in the animal kingdom. Other animals will often try to steal honey, eggs, or bee larvae.
36.4. Altruism
This type of action, where the bee sacrifices its own life to protect the colony, is known as altruism.
37. Are There Ever Times When Bees Will Not Sting?
Despite having stingers, there are many instances where a bee will not sting a human or animal.
37.1. Gathering Nectar
Bees out gathering nectar have little interest in stinging animals. These bees are focused on getting food.
37.2. Lack of Threats
When there is no perceived threat, bees are unlikely to sting anything. Bees tend to stay to themselves, but will be more aggressive around their hives.
37.3. Cold Weather
When it is cold out, bees are far less active and therefore far less aggressive.
37.4. Swarming
When bees are swarming, they have recently left their old hive and are searching for a new one. Bees that are swarming often carry lots of honey and are far less likely to sting.
38. The Impact of Urbanization on Bee Populations
Because bees often thrive in nature, urbanization has the potential to harm and even wipe out bee populations.
38.1. Food Shortage
Urbanization often leads to a shortage of flowers and pollinating plants that bees rely on for food.
38.2. Habitat Loss
As humans build cities, bees are forced to lose their nests and sources of food.
38.3. Pesticide Use
Cities often use pesticides that can harm bee populations.
38.4. Climate Change
As cities contribute significantly to climate change, this also harms bee populations.
Understanding why bees die when they sting involves exploring the intricate anatomy of the stinger, the evolutionary advantages of self-sacrifice, and the ecological role these insects play. Do you have more questions about the animal kingdom? Visit WHY.EDU.VN, where you can ask questions and explore a wealth of expertly answered queries. Our team is dedicated to providing clear, accurate, and trustworthy information to satisfy your curiosity. Reach out to us at 101 Curiosity Lane, Answer Town, CA 90210, United States, or contact us via WhatsApp at +1 (213) 555-0101. Visit our website at why.edu.vn to learn more.
FAQ: Why Do Bees Die When They Sting?
Why do bees die after stinging?
Bees die after stinging because their stinger is barbed and gets stuck in the skin of mammals, causing them to rupture their abdomen when they try to fly away.
Is it true that only honeybees die when they sting?
Yes, it’s primarily honeybees that die after stinging due to their barbed stinger. Wasps and bumblebees have smoother stingers and can sting multiple times.
What part of the bee’s body is left behind after a sting?
When a honeybee stings, it leaves behind its stinger, venom sac, and parts of its digestive system and muscles.
Why does the bee’s abdomen rupture when it stings?
The bee’s abdomen ruptures because the barbed stinger gets lodged in the skin, and when the bee tries to pull away, it tears its internal organs.
How is a wasp’s stinger different from a bee’s?
A wasp’s stinger is smoother and lacks the barbs found on a honeybee’s stinger, allowing wasps to sting multiple times without injury.
What is the purpose of the venom in a bee sting?
The venom contains toxins that cause pain and swelling, serving as a defense mechanism against predators and alerting other bees to danger.
Do male bees sting?
No, male bees (drones) do not have stingers. Only female worker bees have stingers.
Why are bees generally docile and only sting when threatened?
Bees are generally docile because stinging is a last resort defense. They primarily sting when they feel their hive or themselves are in danger.
How do alarm pheromones relate to bee stings?
When a bee stings, it releases alarm pheromones that signal other bees to the threat, prompting them to defend the hive.
What should you do if you get stung by a bee?
If stung, remove the stinger quickly by scraping it out, wash the area with soap and water, apply a cold compress, and take an antihistamine if needed. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.
