Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Appearance

•  Dark brown. Body covered with hairs.

Habits

•  Colony size - large (often greater than 30,000 individuals).
•  Preferred nest sites - hollow trees, roof and wall cavities.
•  Nest construction - wax combs which hang vertically. Nests are in constant use throughout the life of the colony.
•  Swarming - swarms in Spring/early Summer.
•  Overwintering - whole colony.
•  Food preferences - honey and pollen.
•  Reluctant to sting unless provoked.