Honey Bee
Apis mellifera
Appearance
- Dark brown. Body covered with hairs.
Lifecycle
- 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.
Habits
- Swarming — swarms in Spring/early Summer.
- Overwintering — whole colony.
- Food preferences — honey and pollen.
- Reluctant to sting unless provoked.