When the black hornet flies up with a loud hum, the escape reflex is quickly activated. The assumption is obvious that the sting of this carpenter bee is poisonous or at least painful. But is that true?
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The black hornet is a bee
The name Black Hornet comes from colloquialism. It’s a bit misleading because it’s actually a wild bee. The correct name is carpenter bee, or scientifically Xylocopa. The designations blue or black carpenter bees are also common. With its long and strong body, the insect is more reminiscent of a bumblebee than a hornet. What we immediately associate with hornets is their painful sting. Could the naming suggest that this species of bee is just as dangerous?
The external characteristics of the insect
Let’s first look at the external characteristics of the insect so that it is clear which buzzer we are talking about.
- large and stocky physique (like bumblebees)
- about 15 to 28 mm long
- deep black coloration, without pattern
- body and wings often have a metallic shimmer
- the color nuances range from blue to purple
- they hum audibly loud
Is the sting of this bee species poisonous?
The all-clear can be given. The carpenter bees are not as dangerous and poisonous as their impressive appearance and colloquial name might suggest. Their sting is no different in effect from the more familiar honey bees. But of course there are people who are allergic to bee stings. And the rest of humanity finds them at least painful. Therefore, the desire to avoid them is understandable. But how great is the risk of a sting anyway?
What to do after a sting
If, despite the great improbability, a sting should occur, you can apply all the measures that have already proven themselves in the case of honey bee stings. These are:
- Remove sting
- cool the affected area
- Rub the sting site with onion slices
- or brush with a paste of baking soda and water
Preventively prevent bites
The following precautions are always recommended outdoors:
- Never annoy carpenter bees, but also other stinging insects
- Don’t wave or frantically move around near them
- Avoid walking barefoot
- Otherwise, keep an eye on the ground with every step
- Check shoes for stray insects before putting them on
Incidentally, carpenter bees are an endangered species of bee, which is therefore protected by law. Killing an animal preventively so that it cannot bite in the first place is not permitted.
frequently asked Questions
Carpenter bees need dead wood, which they can use as a habitat. Not tidying up the garden helps these insects feel at home in it. Leave sawn logs or thick branches in the garden. An insect hotel is also welcome.
The big bees prefer big flowers. The plant families mint, daisy, borage and lepidoptera offer some large-flowered varieties that these wild bees like to suck on the nectar. For example vetch pea, thistle, sage or viper’s bugloss.
Wooden beams that are built into the roof structure of a house do not exert a great attraction on these wild bees. Unless the wood is already old and rotten. Then it is quite possible that they will be chosen as a nest site.
