5. This is not defensive behavior. Just bees
confused by the disruption of
opening the hive.
6. What makes “mean” bees?
– not really “mean” or “aggressive” but
defensive behavior
– long term cause is probably genetic
– the defensive gene is dominant
7.
8. Considerations in defensive behavior:
Weather – sunny and calm best. Bad weather,
overcast sky can aggravate bees.
9.
10. Considerations in defensive behavior:
Your clothing – dark, fuzzy clothing makes you look
like a predator. Wear light colors.
17. Long term causes of defensive behavior:
Location—animals, people or machinery getting too
close?
Genetics—defensive gene is dominant. Requeening
will give you a new hive of bees in six weeks.
Africanized—not in our area, but not too far away.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23. Bees sprayed with sugar syrup will be busy
cleaning themselves and not attacking
you.
24. – wear full suit, seal all openings
– approach hive from behind, never front
– lightly smoke entrance and wait one minute
25. – use extra hive covers on boxes as you remove
them