The orientation flight of new bees is a captivating event to watch. In this slow-motion video, we capture the mesmerizing journey of young bees as they embark on their first adventure outside the hive, exploring the world around them.
The female foraging bees train themselves by taking orientation flights prior to their first foraging flights. An orientation flight at the hive entrance begins as a departing bee turns and hovers back and forth, turning in short arcs, apparently looking at the hive entrance. Then, the bee increases the size of the arcs until she flies in complete circles while ascending high above the ground. This spiraling flight takes the bee high into the sky. She returns a few minutes later, always without nectar or pollen.
Typically, the number of orientation flights taken by bees before foraging ranges from 1 to 18 flights. Equally variable is the age at which these flights begin, ranging from 3 to 14 days after the bee is born . Their orientation flights play a crucial role in their navigation and foraging abilities, insuring the survival and productivity of their colonies.
As we watch this video of new bees embarking on their orientation flight, we see the incredible instincts and intelligence of these tiny creatures. They navigate the world with a purpose and determination.
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