I love playing honeybee CSI!
I agree with Jim here. I'm impressed Jim, very open minded even for a scientist!
and also Jdg, excellent!
OK, I think know the type of pool you are talking about that has the inflatable ring around the top. I dont mean to brag, but I do have one myself, but opted for the more sporty 8 Wal-Mart special.
One of my 7 year old twins got out of the pool the other day and stepped on a water foraging honeybee that was collecting nice warm water that falls on the tarp the pool sits on and gets heated by the sun, first sting!
What I think is happening here Jaydee, and Jim makes very a good point in a possible cause. But why are the bees there in the first place?,,, what is the attraction??
Why I mention my sons recent sting from a water forager. Is that honeybees seem to prefer foraging warm water, that is continuous, and reliable in supply. The design of this pool allows for splashed water that lands on the inflatable sides to be warmed by the sun as it runs down and collects in the seem between the inflatable top, and side panel.
The water collects in teh seam where it is kept warm, and provides a convenient and continuous watering hole for the water foragers, and remaining there long after you are finished swiming. As swimmers rest their arms on the inflatable sides, the plastic closes on the bees causing them to defend them selves with a defensive sting as Jdg suggested.
Case of the honeybees stinging pool, solved!
Im counting on Jim to provide us with the scientific explanation behind this phenomenon.
Im no lawyer, but this a dangerous hazard, a defect in the design of the pool that could cause bodily harm. I see a lawsuit.
Best Wishes,