Africanized honey bees, also known as “killer bees,” are present in nearly all of Florida, with particularly high populations in the southern and central regions. They have spread throughout the state since their initial discovery in 2005. Counties with confirmed Africanized honey bee populations include Palm Beach, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Lee, Sarasota, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Lake, Volusia, Seminole, Polk, Brevard, and Charlotte. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• South Florida: Africanized honey bees are heavily populated in Palm Beach, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Lee counties. 

Central Florida:

Confirmed populations exist in Orange, Osceola, Lake, Volusia, Seminole, Polk, and Brevard counties. 

Other Areas:

Sarasota and Manatee counties also have smaller populations. 

Spread:

The bees have expanded their range since their initial discovery, with Marion County considered a front line due to its colder temperatures. 

General Presence:

It’s important to note that Africanized honey bees are essentially established throughout Florida, and it’s more about understanding their behavior and how to coexist with them rather than eradicating them.