Sweat bees, members of the widespread Halictidae family, are common insects often encountered in gardens and outdoor spaces globally. This family contains nearly 4,500 diverse species. They are generally small, slender bees, ranging from about 3 to 10 millimeters in length, and are effective pollinators found on every continent except Antarctica.
The Direct Answer: Do They Sting
Female sweat bees possess a stinger and only sting defensively if accidentally trapped, crushed, or swatted while resting on the skin. Male sweat bees do not have a stinger and are harmless.
The sensation of a sting is considered one of the mildest among stinging insects, described as a brief, light prick followed by minor, temporary irritation or a slight burning sensation. On the Schmidt Sting Pain Index, the sting registers a low score of 1.0, likened to a tiny spark singeing a single hair. Although all bees have mandibles, they do not bite humans for defense or offense. Unlike the honeybee, the sweat bee’s stinger is not barbed, meaning the bee can sting multiple times without dying.
Why They Are Attracted to Humans
The common name “sweat bee” is derived from their habit of landing on humans to consume perspiration. They are attracted to the salt and moisture in human sweat, which provides them with necessary minerals. This behavior is common during warm weather when the bees are seeking sources of sodium.
When a sweat bee lands on exposed skin, it is not an aggressive act but an attempt to lap up the salty moisture. The bee is foraging for nutrients, a behavior that often brings it into close contact with people. This harmless foraging is the main reason accidental stings occur, as the bee may be inadvertently crushed while feeding.
Floral scents from perfumes, lotions, or soaps can also increase a person’s allure to these bees. These fragrances mimic the smell of flowers, causing them to investigate the person more closely. The combination of moisture, salt, and floral scent makes an individual attractive to a foraging sweat bee.
Identifying and Coexisting
Sweat bees are a diverse group, but many species are small and have a distinctive metallic appearance, often brilliant green, blue, or sometimes dull black or brown. Their size (3 to 10 millimeters) makes them noticeably smaller than a honeybee. They are frequently seen flying low to the ground and are major pollinators.
These bees are ecologically valuable, playing a significant role in pollinating native wildflowers and agricultural crops such as stone fruits and watermelons. Many sweat bees are ground-nesting, preferring to dig tunnels in well-drained soil. Some species are solitary, while others live in communal or small social groups.
Coexisting with sweat bees involves understanding their non-aggressive nature and avoiding actions that could make them feel threatened. If one lands on you, the safest approach is to remain still or gently brush it off with a slow, deliberate movement. Avoiding swatting or crushing the bee is the most effective way to prevent a defensive sting.