Hunt's bumble bee

Bombus huntii

Severity of bites

High

Severe damage. This can include life-threatening allergic reactions, transmission of serious diseases, or insects that have particularly painful or harmful bites or stings.

Description

Hunt's bumble bee is fascinating for its unique behavior of outcompeting other bees for floral resources. Its feeding habits are diverse with a preference for plants like sagebrush and thistles. Despite stinging capabilities, there are no significant health risks associated with hunt's bumble bee, and it plays a vital role in pollination. The population of this remarkable bumble bee, however, faces threats from habitat loss and climate change.

What are the symptoms of a Hunt's bumble bee bite or sting?

Localized pain

Typically, a sting from hunt's bumble bee results in instant, sharp pain which lessens over the next couple of hours. Redness, warmth, and swelling could also appear at the site of the sting.

Itching

The body's natural response to a sting can lead it to release histamines, causing itching around the affected area.

Allergic reaction

In rare cases, individuals might exhibit an allergic reaction to the hunt's bumble bee's venom, which could result in symptoms like difficulty breathing, hives, rapid heart rate, and swelling around the eyes, lips, throat, and tongue.

Multiple Stings

In some instances where multiple stings occur, symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhea to dizziness or a severe headache.

What are the treatments for a Hunt's bumble bee bite or sting?

Immediate Care

Wash the sting site with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If possible, raise the affected area.

Observation

Monitor the person closely for the next few hours following the sting to track any signs of an allergic response. If one is observed to develop, it qualifies as a medical emergency and should be treated as such immediately.

Medical Attention

A sting anywhere on the neck or mouth, multiple stings, or if the person begins to show signs of an allergic reaction are all cues that the person needs medical attention.

How to prevent a Hunt's bumble bee bite or sting?

Appropriate Clothing

Wear light-colored, smooth-finished clothing. Avoid perfumed soaps, shampoos, and deodorants which can attract the hunt's bumble bee. Cover food and trash cans to minimize attraction.

Cautious Behavior

Remain calm and still if a hunt's bumble bee is nearby; don’t flail or swat. If a hunt's bumble bee flies into your vehicle, calmly stop the car and open all the windows.

Professional Help

If the hunt's bumble bee nest is near human habitats, seek assistance from pest control professionals.

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