Western Honey Bee

Natural Habitat

Gardens, orchards, meadows, and areas with abundant flowering plants; hives are often found in hollow trees or provided by beekeepers.

Diet & Feeding

Nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowers. Foragers bring food back to the hive to share with the colony.

Behavior Patterns

Eusocial insects living in complex colonies with a queen, drones, and worker bees. They communicate floral locations via a 'waggle dance' and are active during daylight hours.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Essential pollinators for many food crops and natural ecosystems; producers of honey and wax. Risks: Can sting if threatened or if the hive is disturbed, which may cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in some individuals.

Identified on: 3/4/2026