Africanized Bees Found in 7 More Communities

Africanized honey bees have colonized at least seven more cities in the county.

Swarms or colonies of the so-called killer bees were found in the cities of Commerce, Lynwood, Santa Fe Springs, El Segundo and Rancho Palos Verdes, as well as the communities of Del Aire and Lennox Park, the county Department of Agriculture said.

In February, six swarms and one colony were killed in these areas. Two swarms escaped. Africanized honey bees have colonized 1,010 square miles of the county--about 25%--and are expected to colonize the entire county by the end of the year, said Robert Donley, a deputy director in the county agriculture department.

Killer bees are much more aggressive than their European counterparts, he said, and they swarm seven to 10 times per year.

The county has set up a phone line, (800) BEE-WARY, for more information. Another number, (800) 925-3800, has been set up by the Greater Los Angeles Vector Control District.