Identification: Honey Bees (Apis mellifera) are medium-sized flying insects recognized by the black and yellow bands on the abdomen. Unfortunately, many flying insects are similarly marked. However, honey bees have hairy eyes. Female worker bees collect pollen on comb-like structure on the hind leg and carry it back to the hive, where it is used to make honey (bee food).

Around southern Nevada, hikers should assume that all honey bees are Africanized and potentially dangerous. Maintain plenty of distance between yourself and the hive.