This study by Alem et al. shows that bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) can be trained to pull strings to obtain a reward, can learn to string-pull through observation, and can culturally spread string-pulling throughout a colony. The image shows a bumblebee pulling on a string to retrieve a blue plastic “flower” laden with sugar water. The “flower” lies under a sheet of Plexiglas, and is attached to a string that protrudes from the edge of this screen. In order to expose the “flower” and reap their sugary reward, the bees must learn to pull the string. The study shows that bees are able to learn this skill, whether via a gradual training program, or (rarely) spontaneously. Once learned, the bees can transmit the string-pulling technique socially to their colony mates.

Image Credit: Olli Loukola