Georgia Pest Control Practice Test

Which procedure is most harmful to bees and other pollinating insects?

1. Applying emulsifiable concentrates outdoors in the late afternoon

2. Applying wettable powders and encapsulated materials to outside areas in the early morning

3. Applying aerosol pesticides to indoor locations

4. Warning bee hive owners of outdoor spraying operations

The correct answer is: Applying wettable powders and encapsulated materials to outside areas in the early morning

The procedure that poses the most significant risk to bees and other pollinating insects involves applying wettable powders and encapsulated materials to outside areas in the early morning. This timing is crucial because, during early mornings, bees are typically emerging from their hives and are actively foraging for nectar and pollen. Spraying pesticides when bees are present increases the likelihood of direct exposure to these chemicals, which can be highly detrimental to their health and survival. Moreover, wettable powders and encapsulated materials tend to remain on plant surfaces longer than other pesticide formulations, which can add to the potential for bees to be exposed even after the initial application. The combination of outdoor application during peak bee activity and the persistence of the pesticide can create a highly toxic environment for these essential pollinators. In contrast, applying emulsifiable concentrates in the late afternoon may be less harmful because many bees will have returned to their hives by that time. Using aerosol pesticides indoors minimizes exposure to outdoor pollinators, and warning hive owners allows for proactive measures to protect their bees during spraying operations.