I frequently read that skunks, bears, and various other mammals and
some birds will plunder bee nests and eat everything despite the
bees' attempts at defense.  Yet these accounts never explain why
these animals are not mortally stung, or how they are different from
other animals that do not attack nests.   I have been wondering this
for years; does anyone out there know the answer?  Obviously, the bees
can't sting through heavy fur, but as far as I can see, the eyes and
nose are exposed, and I would think animals could ill afford injury
to these parts!
baffled,
Liz Day
 
University of Illinois at Chicago
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