Bees learn complex tasks by watching each other

Bees can master challenging tasks by observing each other.

Experiments have demonstrated that these insects can successfully complete a complex puzzle box task by watching their fellow bees and receiving a sugar reward.

However, the bees faced difficulties when there was no assistance available.

Scientists believe that bees possess a “level of social learning that was previously believed to be unique to humans.”

Professor Lars Chittka, from Queen Mary University in London, stated: “This challenges the conventional belief that only humans can socially learn complex behaviors beyond individual learning.”

He added, “It suggests that many of the impressive accomplishments of social insects may have initially spread through imitation of clever innovators.”

The research team explained that their findings indicate the existence of cumulative culture in bees and “pave the way for exciting possibilities for further exploration.”