Bees are usually kind and loving creatures, going about their day without bothering anyone.
But sometimes, they sting you by accident and unlike popular belief, not every sting means a bee is sacrificing itself.
In fact, when bees accidentally sting, they will often try to remove their sting by rotating in circles, hoping to get it out without causing their own demise.
Why Bees Sting
It should be clearly stated that bees generally don’t want to sting.
In most cases, they’re simply defending themselves or their hive.
When a bee stings, it’s usually out of a protective instinct triggered by sudden movements, strong smells, or the sense of a threat.
However, sometimes, even without intending to, a bee might sting you while simply exploring or if caught in a tight spot.
A Gentle Attempt to Survive
When a bee stings, its barbed stinger gets lodged in the skin.
In an effort to save itself, the bee will start rotating in small circles, gently trying to remove the sting.
This motion shows that the bee doesn’t want to sacrifice itself but is instinctively trying to pull the stinger out.
If it manages to do so, the bee can fly away without causing harm to itself, though this outcome is rare.
What to Do When You Get Stung
If you’re stung by a bee, it’s important to act quickly.
Here’s what you can do:
Remove the Stinger:
If the bee doesn’t manage to get it out on its own, you’ll need to remove it as quickly as possible.
Use a fingernail or a flat object to gently scrape the stinger out.
Avoid pinching, as this can release more venom.
Stay Calm:
Bees communicate with pheromones, and if they sense danger or distress, more bees could be drawn to the area.
Staying calm reduces the chance of further stings.
Treat the Sting:
Clean the area with soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
If you know yourself to be allergic to bee stings call an ambulance as fast as possible or ask someone to hastily take you to a hospital.
Understanding Bees’ Gentle Nature
I want you to understand that bees aren’t aggressive by nature.
They’re dedicated to their hive and focused on their work.
Stinging is always a last resort. In fact, most bees would rather avoid stinging because of the risk it poses to their own lives.
Knowing this can help us appreciate their behavior and respect their space.
