PubMed · 2026-05-20
Scientists measured for the first time exactly how much energy bumblebees spend when they vibrate flowers to shake out pollen — a behavior called buzz pollination. The energy cost rivals taking flight, meaning this overlooked activity is a significant driver of how bees choose which flowers to visit.
Each floral buzzing event costs approximately 0.10 joules, with a mass-specific power output of ~293 W/kg — comparable to the energetic demand of flight take-off.
Overall energy costs of buzzing bouts equal those of take-off because buzzing lasts longer, even though the per-second metabolic rate is lower.
As nectar sugar concentration declines, the nectar 'payback' bees need to cover buzzing costs rises, directly linking flower quality to pollination likelihood.