With the arrival of spring conditions each year, there is typically an increase in the activity of wasps, yellow jackets, bumblebees, honey bees, and the Africanized honey bee, which was first reported in Riverside County in 1994. We would like to offer the following general facts and guidelines for dealing with these conditions and encourage you to educate yourself further on this matter.

Bees are not likely to sting when gathering nectar and pollen from flowers and a swarm of bees in flight seldom bothers people. All bees become more defensive when they settle, begin producing wax comb, and raising young. When participating in outdoor sports and activities, be aware of indications of bee swarms and colonies and avoid these areas. Indications of bee swarms and/or colonies may include:

· Visible nesting sites

· Large quantities of bees located in a single area

· An unusual buzzing sound

If bees are encountered, it is best to leave that area quickly. Do not disturb a nest or swarm. If chased, protect your face and eyes as much as possible and take shelter in a car or building. Do not stand and swat at bees. Rapid motions may aggravate them and cause them to sting.

We make every effort to remove potential and existing nest sites around apartment buildings. Please help us in this endeavor by contacting the RSO if you notice heightened bee activity in a certain area, if you notice a bee or wasp nest or swarm in a residential area, or if you have any further questions.