Why Oriental hornets can’t get drunk
They can guzzle extreme amounts for their size, without suffering ill effects
Like people, many animals enjoy having a drink every now and again. Rather than sip brandy or Chablis, though, they feed on fermented fruit, but the effects are the same. Though alcohol is rich in calories, it muddles minds and shortens lifespans. It presents a serious risk to animals and most avoid drinking to excess.
This article appeared in the Science & technology section of the print edition under the headline “Buzzing without being buzzed”
From the October 26th 2024 edition
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