How Often Do Beekeepers Get Stung? (And Why It’s Not as Bad as You Might Think)
If you’re thinking about getting into beekeeping but worried about getting stung, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions new and aspiring beekeepers ask is:
“How often will I get stung?”
The short answer is: yes, you will get stung at some point but probably not as often as you think. And surprisingly, the occasional sting may even come with some unexpected benefits.
Honeybees Are Naturally Gentle
Let’s clear something up right away: honeybees are not out to get you. They’re naturally mild-mannered and focused on their job: gathering nectar, building comb, and caring for their queen. Honeybees only sting when they feel truly threatened, and even then, it’s a last resort.
Beekeepers who move calmly, wear protective clothing, and know how to handle their hives often go weeks or even months without a sting. Once you learn how to read the bees' behavior, you can usually avoid upsetting them.
The Africanized Bee Factor
That said, not all bees are created equal. Africanized honeybees, sometimes called “killer bees” are a more aggressive hybrid that reacts quickly and in larger numbers when they feel their hive is threatened.
They’re mostly found in warmer parts of the southern U.S., Central America, and South America. While their sting is no more venomous than a regular honeybee’s, the increased aggression means you’re more likely to be stung multiple times if you’re dealing with an Africanized hive.
However, most beekeepers, especially those who get their bees from reputable breeders, will never deal with Africanized bees. Managing calm colonies is completely doable.
So... How Often Do Beekeepers Actually Get Stung?
It varies. A beginner might get stung more often while learning the ropes, but experienced beekeepers often report going long stretches without a single sting. With proper gear (like a veil, gloves, and suit) and respectful hive management, most stings can be avoided.
Still, accidents happen. A bee might get trapped in a glove or under clothing, or just feel a little extra defensive on a given day.
Unexpected Benefit: Bee Stings and Joint Pain
Here’s something most people don’t expect. Some beekeepers say that getting stung has actually helped with joint stiffness and arthritis pain. That’s not just folklore.
Bee venom contains compounds like melittin and apamin, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory effects. Apitherapy, the use of bee products (including venom) for health purposes, has been practiced in traditional medicine for centuries.
Of course, bee venom therapy should always be approached with caution, especially for people with allergies. But for the average beekeeper, a sting or two here and there can sometimes come with a little bonus relief.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Fear Stop You
If you’re dreaming about keeping bees but worried about getting stung, take heart. Honeybees are gentle by nature, and with the right approach, beekeeping can be a peaceful and deeply rewarding experience.
You’ll learn how to move slowly, respect the hive, and communicate with your bees. In return, they’ll let you into their world.
So suit up, stay calm, and don’t let the sting scare you off. It’s all part of the buzz. 🐝
👉 Wanna get lost in the hive-mind? Click on our other bee-rilliant bee blogs! They’re stickier than honey and twice as sweet.
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