Honey bee swarm. Close-up of a swarm of honey bees (Apis mellifera). Honey bees originated in southern Asia, but they have now been introduced throughout the world. They are highly social insects. Swarms such as this one are largely made up of worker bees, which construct the hive, feed the larvae and defend the hive against any enemies. Honey bees are kept for their honey, a rich sugar solution used to feed their young.