Africanized Bees
Africanized bees can be found throughout southern California
and have integrated into the environment with amazing
success. Africanized bees are virtually identical visually
to the native European bee, and are often far more
aggressive. This being the case, it is imperative that bee
swarms and hives located on commercial properties be
addressed immediately upon discovery. Africanized bees pose
a significant risk to people and animals and have at times
been responsible for the death of individuals who found
themselves exposed to these dangerous insects.
Often, bees can enter building defects and establish a hive
in an out-of-the-way location such as parapet walls, and
building soffits. There is the potential of significant
damage to the building along with the danger of the bees
themselves. Bees can produce copious amounts of honey in a
relatively short period of time. It is essential that the
honey and comb be removed by a certified professional along
with making the hive location inhospitable and sealing up
any entry points.