One of the first interesting things I ever committed to memory was the fact that bees die immediately after they sting. I can’t remember exactly why; I think it rips a hole in their abdomen for some reason. I’ve always thought it a little short-sighted on the bee’s behalf. I understand attacking a potential predator, but if the act of defence is going to result in certain death, then surely the sacrifice is too great. Even if the odds were stacked heavily against your survival, at least you’d stand some kind of chance; as soon as you release that stinger it’s game over.