The Georgia Department of Agriculture has issued an alert indicating that Africanized honeybees have been found in Georgia.  These bees are more defensive than normal honey bees meaning they attack sooner, in greater numbers and pursue longer and more vigorously. In addition, they build nests in unconventional locations and swarm more frequently increasing the likelihood of an encounter.

 

Counties are encouraged to notify employees and volunteers who are frequently outdoors (utility workers, meter readers, road crews, firemen, first responders, youth sports coaches) to be aware of this alert as they may be more likely to encounter these bees. 

 

For more information:

 

Georgia Department of Agriculture Alert Press Release (10/21/2010)

 

Africanized Bees:  Coping with the Challenge (video produced by the Florida Department of Agriculture)