Smart Insects – The Astonishing Intelligence of Bumblebees, Wasps & Co.

Recent research reveals that humans have long underestimated insect intelligence. Bumblebees excel in behavioral tests alongside crows, using tools to extract nectar from artificial flowers. Behavioral biologist Elizabeth Tibbetts notes the impressive learning capabilities of paper wasps, which can memorize faces, eavesdrop on rivals, and tackle complex brain teasers. These species, along with other insects, challenge the outdated notion of them as mindless beings. Insects can store images, shapes, and experiences, and some, like earwigs, have maternal teaching behaviors. Surprisingly, insects from the same brood can exhibit different personality traits; for instance, horseradish flea beetles can vary in bravery. Tibbetts compares paper wasps to Game of Thrones characters, highlighting their social dynamics, including plotting and betrayal. This complexity allows species to adapt better to environmental changes, showcasing a rich tapestry of insect intelligence that demands a reevaluation of how humans view these creatures.