Absconding, migration and swarming

Abstract

This account begins with a detailed discussion of historical confusion concerning terminology, and fresh, precise definitions for absconding, migration and swarming are given. Proximate causes for absconding include resource depletion of nectar and pollen and their measurable effects on brood. Predation pressure and microenvironmental effects are discussed as are peculiarities in dance communication in absconding and migration. Finally, comparisons of reproductive swarming and post-absconding behaviour of the species are presented. The relationship between the preparation period for prepared absconding or migration and distance eventually flown is documented as are different foraging strategies for absconding and stationary honeybee colonies. The energetics of absconding/migration in tropical honeybees are considered.