Honeybees are getting confused by electric pollution from power lines

Honeybees’ Electric Sense: How They Find Nectar-Rich Flowers

Research indicates that honeybees may utilize an electric sense to pinpoint blossoms brimming with nectar. However, electric signals emanating from power lines appear to deter these vital pollinators from landing on close-by flowers, fueling worries that this “electric pollution” may broadly upheave insect conduct.

The Role of Electro-Reception in Honeybee Communication

Studies demonstrate that honeybees, along with bumblebees, possess the capability to perceive and react to airborne electric fields, often resulting from static electricity in the environment. These fields are usually sensed via tiny hairs or antennae.

Electro-Reception: A Key to Finding Nectar

Investigations suggest that honeybees use electro-reception as a means of interaction. There’s a prevailing thought that both honeybees and bumblebees rely on this ability to discover flowers abundant in nectar.