BEES ARE OUT IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

At Joshua Tree National Park bees can be a bother. Park Ranger Pam Tripp has some advice… As the desert temperatures heat up and natural water sources dry up, many animals will become thirstier. Some creatures, such as the tortoise, will retreat to their underground home for a long siesta. However, insects, including bees, require water and may become bothersome. While camping and picnicking in Joshua Tree National Park, keep food and liquids covered in sealable containers. Bees are attracted to campsites and dumpsters and even to the condensation of vehicle air conditioners. Visitors in campgrounds and picnic areas can reduce the threat of bee stings by not leaving soda cans and water bottles out to attract foraging bees. A small bowl of water set away from your campsite or picnic table can also distract them, but only if they begin to hover around. Other areas where bees are common in Summer are Keys View and Cholla Cactus Garden. Check at park visitor centers if you are sensitive to insect stings so you can be advised of risky areas. For Z107.7 Copper Mountain Broadcasting, this is park ranger Pam Tripp, reminding you to enjoy the solace and wonder of your national park.