Citronella and Killer bees

[APKBUICU@aol.com]

Hi all:
I don't know if this has been posted or not so if it has bear with me. Here 
in Arizona the winter was much wetter than normal. Great for wildflowers and 
HORRIBLE for Killer bees. Any type of flyspray, wash or the like should NOT 
have citronella as an ingredient, It is an attractant for these bees. I am 
not sure about the rest of the country but this is a serious issue here and 
most bee experts are warning against the use of any citronella containing 
product. My vet also confirmed this. We have had numerous attacks already 
this year. If you are attacked cover your head and curl up on the ground. You 
or your horse are not safe in water as the bees have a tendency to wait for 
you. They are not any more deadly than your average honey bee, just more 
aggressive. If a swarm is near, you will hear what sounds like a strong wind 
or engine noise coming toward you. If you pass a swarm in a tree or wash, do 
not stop or swing at any errant bee, just keep on riding. Anyone coming to a 
ride in this area of the country, please check your ingredient lists. And, 
educate yourself on the proper way to handle these bees. Most bee farmers in 
this area are crossing with the domestic honey bee to try and breed the 
aggressiveness out of the killer bee. It is working but will take time. In 
the meantime, be safe. By the way, if your horse is attacked, most people 
will tell you to let the horse take care of itself as there is nothing you 
can do to lessen the attack until the bees are gone. Take care of yourself 
first, then your animal.