Animal flight at altitude involves substantial aerodynamic and physiological challenges.
Hovering at high elevations is particularly demanding from the dual perspectives of lift and
power output; nevertheless, some volant insects reside and fly at elevations in excess of
4000 m. Here, we demonstrate that alpine bumble-bees possess substantial aerodynamic
reserves, and can sustain hovering flight under hypobaria at effective elevations in excess of
9000 m, ie higher than Mt. Everest. Modulation of stroke amplitude and not wingbeat …

Animal flight at altitude involves substantial aerodynamic and physiological challenges.
Hovering at high elevations is particularly demanding from the dual perspectives of lift and
power output; nevertheless, some volant insects reside and fly at elevations in excess of
4000 m. Here, we demonstrate that alpine bumble-bees possess substantial aerodynamic
reserves, and can sustain hovering flight under hypobaria at effective elevations in excess of
9000 m, ie higher than Mt. Everest. Modulation of stroke amplitude and not wingbeat …