The George Herald approached Clay Whittal, a beekeeper with 60 years of experience, for advice on what to do if one runs into a swarm of bees. "Never wave your hands or scream and shout. Simply leave the area at a brisk walk, but don't run.
"When bees swarm they are very gentle as they are on a mission to find a new residence and are not in a protective or defensive mode. They don't want to sting you as after the sting they die."
Whittal says that presently bees are in the midst of their spring swarming. "Apis mellifera capensis, or the Cape bee, swarms twice a year, once in spring and then again in autumn when the fynbos flowers. The propagation of the species is the reason for the bees to swarm."
When bees move they are called a swarm, but when they settle in a hive or a natural nesting site like a cave, rock cavity, hollow tree or even under the eaves of a house they become a colony. This distinction is vital as it is easy to move a swarm as there are no young bees or food stores that must be protected.
"When the beekeeper removes the swarm it takes approximately 18 months to establish the colony and only then will the hive start producing honey."
Bees are essential for human survival as they are responsible for the pollination required in the growing and production of food. They are flexible and can be manipulated to benefit the crops by moving the hives to the areas where the crops are flowering. For more specialised information please contact Clay Whittal on 074 199 6499.
Dr Adri Hofmeister, Mediclinic George Emergency Centre, says that most bee stings cause pain and slight swelling, but have little other effect. "However, some people are allergic to the stings and can develop reactions that can be life-threatening. Call an ambulance immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction soon after being stung. You may be given oxygen and injections of adrenaline, steroids and antihistamines in hospital to counter the allergic reaction. Some people require a fluid 'drip' and other intensive resuscitation."
There is no specific anti-venom available to counteract the poison injected by the insect and many of the complications from an allergic reaction respond well to the various medications when given timeously.
Chantel Edwards-Klose, media liaison officer, said the George Municipality's 24 hour helpline - 044 801 6300 - can be contacted to provide information as to who can assist in removing the beehives.
Municipal employees Magda Meyer and Hester Aspeling demonstrated to the George Herald how they would protect themselves against the swarm of bees.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: MYRON RABINOWITZ
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