Bumblebees' Surprising Defense Strategy Against Asian Hornets

Bumble bees have developed a successful defense strategy against Asian hornets by dropping to the ground when attacked, causing the hornets to lose their grip or engage in a struggle. Researchers from the University of Exeter observed over 120 such attacks and found that the bumble bees were able to fend off the hornets every time. However, bumble bee colonies in areas with high Asian hornet densities experienced reduced growth rates, indicating a negative impact. Asian hornets are invasive species that prey on various insects, including honey bees and bumble bees, and their presence poses a threat to pollinators.