If a hornet was nearby, the bees would flip into action, creating a very fast rippling effect. If the hornets remained, or dared to get closer, the shimmering would increase.

Kastberger says shimmering is an example of self-organization in nature. During an attack, many bees work together to coordinate rippling waves that protect their lives and home.

Posted in 'Giant honeybees do the wave' at sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/36296/title/Giant_honeybees_do_the_wave

Also posted in 'FOR KIDS: Honeybees do the wave' at sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/36600/title/FOR_KIDS_Honeybees_do_the_wave

Credit: Dr. Gerald Kastberger/Institut für Zoologie, Universität Graz