Killer Bees Spotted In East Bay, But Spread To Sacramento Unlikely Without Help

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Killer bees have been spotted in the East Bay for the first time, raising concerns they could make a run into the Sacramento region.

The bees had previously only been seen as far north as Mariposa County. Researchers at UC San Diego say the bees have now been spotted near Walnut Creek.

Beekeeper Fred Stewart says the bees he deals with are much more docile than Africanized bees, also known as killer bees.

"There could be another hive behind us, is not excited by us, what I'm doing here, but an Africanized bee hive, all of them would be out and attacking us," he said.

The bees are a big worry for some who know they're easily angered and can attack in great numbers if you get too close to them.

A UC Davis bee researcher says a move to Sacramento isn't likely, since bees aren't known to travel long distances. Someone would have to transport them here.