Native Bees in Arizona

In Arizona, you’ll find the most diverse population of native bees in the United States. 600-700 species of bees are native to the Sonoran Desert. They pollinate native flora for millions upon millions of years. These pollinators are important, but they are often overlooked and understudied. This guide will help you identify and learn about Arizona’s native bee species.

Arizona’s most venomous honey bees, the Africanized honeybees, are among the most dangerous. They can cause fatal reactions and 500 stings is equal to one rattlesnake bite. If you come across these bees, call 911 immediately and seek shelter as quickly as possible. Make sure you cover your head with your hands, and run to safety. Do not flail your arms. This is a good idea, but it’s important to remember that you don’t need to have a swarm of Africanized honey bees.

California Digger-cuckoo honeybees are the smallest bees found in Arizona. These species are found in California, but are also widespread in Arizona. In Arizona, they live in Barrel Cactus colonies in Flagstaff and Phoenix. The Barrel Cactus Longhorn Bee is another common species in the state. This species is distinguished by its black and white furry body, large transparent wings, and red antennae.

Africanized honeybees are smaller than European honeybees. They prefer to set up their hives in dry, enclosed areas. Most people can tolerate multiple stings. However, those with severe allergies or sting-sensitive reactions may need medical attention. If you are unable or unwilling to avoid an attack, you may call a professional in Arizona to remove the hive.

The Digger Bee is one of the 1,000 native bee species that live in Arizona. This bee species burrows its nest with its jaws and legs. They do this work without the help of their partners. Honey bee colonies have worker bees that are self-sacrificing and help the queen bee with various tasks. They also produce future queens and kings. They are also known by the name drones.

In 1985, the first Africanized bees were found in a California oil field. Scientists speculated that the colony came from South America in an oil-drilling pipe. The first permanent colonies of these bees were discovered in Texas in 1990. While the majority of bees are beneficial, there are some that are harmful to humans. These bees can be dangerous and you should be aware of them to avoid being a victim.

The Carpenter Bee pollinates flowering plant by collecting and delivering pollen grains, from the male flowers to the female. Pollen grains trigger fertilization and seed formation, and this bee’s work is essential to the state’s agricultural industry. Carpenter bees are also responsible for pollinating our crops and displaying wildflowers each year. For this reason, they may be employed by a commercial enterprise.