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Close up of a yellow jacket wasp

Biology's Mark Willis examines the sensory behaviors of insects

Media | April 20, 2026 | Story by: Editorial Staff

Wind won’t keep hungry yellow jackets away from your picnic
Science News: Mark Willis, professor of biology at the College of Arts and Sciences, said insects are highly skilled at tracking odors in any conditions, using scent to find food, mates and more. He noted behaviors such as “surge-and-cast” help them stay on course, and understanding this ability could benefit humans, including improving technologies such as search-and-rescue robots.