A mother and her three-year-old son required air evacuation to a hospital after a severe attack by a large swarm of bees in Poolewe, Wester Ross. Rosie Kirkness, 31, and her son Jamie Macdonald were set upon by thousands of insects during a walk.
Ms. Kirkness’s mother, Susan, described the June incident as "pretty traumatic," stating she will never forget the sight of her daughter and grandson covered "head to toe" in stings. Both individuals were stung at least 150 times. Ms. Kirkness initially thought a bee was a fly in her hair but soon realized her arm was covered in insects as she attempted to protect Jamie, who was in a pushalong car.
A nearby resident assisted Ms. Kirkness. Her mother reported that Jamie was vomiting bees and had inhaled a large number, with stings to his tongue, throat, ears, and nose.
Rosie and Jamie were airlifted to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness, where they received treatment for several days for issues including kidney problems, swelling, muscle spasms, and cellulitis. They were later readmitted due to Jamie’s continued kidney issues. Ms. Kirkness now carries an adrenaline pen as a precaution against future stings.
Susan Kirkness has launched a petition urging the Scottish Government to ban beehives in public spaces until new safety regulations are implemented. The petition highlights a lack of clear legislation regarding the placement of beehives near public areas and the absence of required safety signage for beekeepers. It suggests that basic regulations could prevent similar incidents and enhance public safety, particularly for children and vulnerable individuals.
An unnamed beekeeper reportedly recalled a similar incident involving two children from the previous year. The Scottish Beekeepers Association emphasized the importance of clear safety standards, advising against siting hives near public pathways or areas frequented by children and animals. The Scottish Government stated that the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 makes it an offense to allow creatures like bees to cause injury, alarm, or annoyance to the public, with enforcement handled by local authorities.