Bee Facts
By Alison Jubb - 4 April 2016
How far can honey bees fly?
It is possible for bees to fly as far as 5 miles for food, however an average distance would be less than a mile from the hive. A strong colony flies the equivalent distance of to the moon every day!
How high can honey bees fly?
A honey bee will not fly much higher than the height of any obstacle in its path. The bee will learn to fly straight out from its colony at high speed and be most surprised if it strikes a new obstacle such as you standing in the way. It may lash out and you will receive a sting so be careful when walking close to the front of a busy beehive.
Mating drones will fly up to 30mtrs above ground to find a queen and can go much higher if warm rising thermal air carries them so.
Do honey bees hibernate overwinter?
No, bees over winter as a strong colony clustered together and using their bodies to generate heat. This cluster is about the size of football, with bees taking turns to be on the cold outside.
Why does a honey bee sting?
A bee only stings under two conditions. To protect the colony or when frightened.
Why does a honey bee die when it stings?
When a bee stings, barbs in the lance of the sting cause it to firmly stick into the victim pulling out the venom sacs and glands when the bee is shaken off. The venom sac muscles continue to pump after these organs have been torn from the dying bee. Only the female workers and the queen can sting, the queen having a smooth sting which she uses to kill other queens.
