Bee Hive Security - How do honeybees protect their hives from predators?
The front line
The first defence mechanism for most kinds of bees is the same method the bees use to protect themselves against us humans, is to use their sting and inject venom into their enemies. Unlike when they sting humans and other mammals that have thick skin which holds onto the sting and kills the bee, to other animals it delivers a shocking sting without killing it.
Protecting the Hive
Propolis is a resin-like white sticky natural substance that the bees make in processing honey and it plays an important part in protecting the hive. Propolis is put at the entrance to the hive, which traps the unwitting predator in the substance and allows the bees time to get to the predator and sting it with venom before it can cause too much damage to the hive. The natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties (amongst other key benefits) of Propolis also allows any infection or parasite or bacteria to be neutralised before entering the hive.
Bees On the Attack
Some species like the Japanese honeybees for example, have another ingenious way of killing larger invasive insects, such as wasps and hornets – they “bake” them alive! If the intruder is nearby, honeybees plot to ambush the intruder by hiding and attacking it in a co-ordinated manner. Sometimes they even form a group in a ball shape and begin flapping their wings to make it impossible for the predators to breathe under an intolerably overheated environment. The heat and the carbon monoxide produced as a direct result of the bees flapping their wings, then suffocates and kills the intruder. This method is not used by all bee species but with nature adapting and innovating every year to threats and opportunities, it’s hoped that other species of bees will pick up this “killer” instinct!
Fun fact - the “bee ball” strategy (also known as “thermoballing”) the Japanese honeybees use to suffocate their enemies can generate heat up to 45 degrees, which is deadly to most insects.
As you can see, thankfully Bees are generally self-sufficient when it comes down to protecting their hive from harm, but they are still under threat from man-made environmental changes. We believe it is our responsibility as humans to protect their precious environment and our environment, to ensure we all thrive!
Also in Natural Health World Articles
D-Mannose FAQ
-
D-mannose is commonly discussed in relation to urinary health, particularly by people who experience recurring urinary discomfort or infections.
It is typically used as a supplement that may support urinary tract health, not as a treatment for an active infection.
-
D-mannose is thought to interact with certain types of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, which are commonly associated with urinary tract infections.
It may help reduce the ability of these bacteria to attach to the lining of the urinary tract, allowing them to be flushed out through normal urination.
This is a proposed mechanism and does not apply to all types of urinary issues.
-
Some people choose to take D-mannose daily, particularly when managing ongoing or recurring urinary issues.
However, there is no single standard approach, and usage can vary depending on the product and individual circumstances.
If you are considering regular use, it’s a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for you.
-
D-mannose is generally considered well tolerated for most people when taken as directed. Some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort, particularly at higher intakes.
If you are pregnant, recovering from surgery, managing a health condition, or taking medication, it’s best to speak to your GP or healthcare professional before use.
-
No — D-mannose is not a replacement for antibiotics or medical treatment.
If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it’s important to speak to a GP, as antibiotics may be required.
D-mannose is typically discussed as a self-care option, not a treatment.
-
The NHS includes D-mannose as one of several options that people may consider if they experience recurrent urinary tract infections.
It is generally described as a self-care approach rather than a medical treatment, and evidence is still considered limited.
-
D-mannose is commonly available in both tablet and powder form.
- Powder can allow more flexible dosing but usually needs mixing
- Tablets are more convenient and easier to take on the go
The best option often depends on personal preference and what fits most easily into your routine.
- Powder can allow more flexible dosing but usually needs mixing
-
There is no single agreed dose for D-mannose.
Different products provide different guidance, and some are designed to be taken in smaller amounts throughout the day rather than all at once.
It’s best to follow the instructions on the product you are using and speak to a healthcare professional if you are unsure.
-
Recurring urinary tract infections can happen for a variety of reasons, including anatomy, hormonal changes, life stage, sexual activity, and individual susceptibility.
In many cases, there isn’t a single clear cause.
If you experience frequent UTIs, speaking to your GP can help identify any patterns, possible triggers, and appropriate ways to manage them.
-
If you are experiencing symptoms such as:
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Lower abdominal discomfort
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
It’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
In many cases, you do not always need to wait for a GP appointment. According to NHS guidance:
- A pharmacist can often provide advice and, in some cases, treatment for uncomplicated UTIs
- If you cannot access your GP, you can also use NHS 111 for urgent advice, either online or by phone
You should seek more urgent advice if:
- Symptoms are new, severe, or getting worse
- You have a high or very low temperature, or feel shivery
- You have pain in your lower back or sides
- You notice blood in your urine
- Symptoms are not improving within a couple of days
If you experience recurrent urinary issues, it can also be helpful to speak to your GP about patterns, possible triggers, and whether there are any preventative or supportive approaches that may be appropriate for you. You may also wish to ask whether options like D-mannose are suitable within your overall care.
While most urinary tract infections are straightforward to treat, they can occasionally lead to more serious complications if left unmanaged. In some cases, UTIs can develop into more serious infections, including sepsis, particularly if the infection spreads to the kidneys or bloodstream
This is one of the reasons why it’s important not to ignore ongoing or recurring symptoms, and to seek medical advice where needed.
For more information, you can also visit the NHS guidance here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/
D-mannose is not a substitute for medical care or prescribed treatment.
- Burning or pain when urinating
