Bee Brain Intellect

Dr Erica McAlister of London's Natural History Museum takes a look at some of the entomological pioneers, whose groundbreaking observations and experiments have led to some truly innovative developments.

Bees may have tiny brains, but they are surprisingly clever. They can learn from their environment to gain a reward, and then teach other bees to do the same.

Dr Erica McAlister examines the pioneering work of African American biologist and civil rights activist Charles Henry Turner, who during the early 20th century conducted painstaking research into honeybee foraging, orientation and intelligence. His long overlooked work has led modern day researchers to question whether bigger brains are always better.

With contributions from Dr Jessica Ware, entomologist (American Museum of Natural History), Prof Martin Giurfa neurobiologist (Centre de Biologie Intégrative de Toulouse), Prof Lars Chittka, zoologist (Queen Mary, University of London), engineer Farrell Helbling (Cornell University)

Producer: Adrian Washbourne

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in May 2022.