How Are Wasps Nests Made?

Depending on the species, wasp nests are either made of wood pulp, mud, or saliva. Most social wasps build their nests in hollow trees or rock crevices, but some species prefer to burrow in the ground.

The wasp queen selects a suitable nest site. The nest is then constructed, beginning in the spring after the queen has emerged from hibernation. The queen wasp builds the center stalk and adds cells for the larvae. The queen also adds further layers of paper to protect the cells.

The nest can grow in size as the wasp population increases. It is not uncommon for a nest to reach enormous size, looking like a huge termite mound. Some nests are as large as six feet by five feet. It is not unusual for a nest to have thousands of wasps at one time.

The nests are built in sheltered places. It is common to see wasp nests in wall cavities, bird boxes, and roof spaces. It is important to maintain high humidity and a stable temperature in the nest. A wasp nest is usually made of salivary secretions and wood fibers. The material is usually mixed with saliva to make it malleable.

When it comes time for the wasp’s brood to hatch, the wasp larva becomes an adult wasp. The larva then lays an egg, which is usually filled with food. After the larvae develop, other wasps seal the cell’s entrance to keep the larvae from escaping.

Continue reading:

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