Africanized Honeybees Confirmed in Alabama, Posing Risks to Residents

Montgomery, Alabama – Africanized honeybees, known for their aggressive behavior, have been confirmed across 13 states, including Alabama. These bees, a hybrid of African and European honeybees, present significant risks to both people and animals.

Africanized honeybees are more dangerous than regular honeybees because they attack in swarms. They can chase individuals or animals for up to a mile and are known to sting through typical beekeeping gear. Their appearance closely resembles that of standard honeybees, making them difficult to identify for the average person.

The first group of killer bees to hit the U.S. made headlines in the 1990s. They thrive in warmer climates, often found in southern states where winters are milder. While these honeybees do not have a more potent sting than regular bees, their tendency to swarm means that a single threat to the colony can result in hundreds of stings.

In case of an attack, experts advise running in a zigzag pattern and seeking shelter inside a building or vehicle. Getting into water is not advisable, as the bees tend to wait for individuals to resurface.

The Alabama Department of Agriculture confirmed the presence of Africanized honeybees in Jackson and St. Clair counties in early 2024, following reports from local beekeepers. Officials promptly euthanized the invasive bees and established traps within a five-mile radius to monitor their spread.

Florida reports the highest concentration of these aggressive bees, but sightings in Alabama signify a growing concern. Understanding their behavior and response strategies is crucial as Africanized honeybees continue to expand their presence across the United States.