Making Connections

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, which protects county residents from mosquitoes, has added Africanized killer bees to its list of targets.

In a nonemergency situation, when an outdoor colony of bees is found, residents can call (800) 925-3800 and a bee-suppression unit will be dispatched within 24 hours to remove the swarm or colony for free. (In an emergency, when a person or pet is being attacked, 911 should be called.)

Bees in or on structures should be handled by a certified structural pest-control operator. For a list of these operators, call (800) BEE-WARY. Cost of removal varies, depending on the size of the colony, its location and other factors. Residents should never attempt to remove bee colonies on their own.

For more information about bee or mosquito abatement, call (562) 944-9656 in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys or (805) 942-2917 in the Antelope Valley.