Please "bee" careful

Margaret
- December 19, 2008

I always enjoy your observations, but just now noticed that while you correctly identifiied the bald face hornet nest revealed in the leafless tree, you then referred to "bees!" As an apiarist of 30 some years, I spend almost as much time trying to educate the public that not all stinging insects are bees as I do working to make sure that the honeybees in my hives can thrive, pollinate and produce without chemicals, etc.

It is important that everyone recognizes the differences in these insects. Bald face hornets can pose a threat--believe me, their sting is quite severe--whereas most European honeybees have no interest in attacking humans unless they are attacked.

I would appreciate your help in making the distinction that not all insects of the order Hymenoptera are bees!

Thank you.