How Do Wasps Create Their Nests?
WouterDepending on the species, wasps build nests in a variety of places. Some wasps build their nests in hollow trees and others build them in rock crevices. Some social wasps build nests in buildings. Other wasps build their nests in fence panels, garden sheds, porch overhangs and chimneys.
The first phase of the wasp nest cycle is when the queen wasp lays her eggs. She starts the process by searching for a suitable nest site. After deciding on a suitable place, she scrapes wood fibers with her jaws and mixes the wood with saliva. She then forms a hexagonal cell in the nest. This cell provides protection for the eggs.
When the weather gets colder, the worker wasps begin to die off. They are replaced by adult wasps who continue to build the nest. The nest can reach enormous sizes. They are constructed from wood, paper or mud.
The purpose of a wasp nest is to provide protection for the queen and her offspring. The nest also serves as a place for the workers to eat. They gather food from rotting wood and other materials.
The nest is designed to maintain high humidity. This provides a consistent temperature and allows the wasps to keep the nest from drying out. The nest will naturally die off once the queen leaves.
The nests of social wasps are designed to accommodate the needs of the queen and her offspring. Some social wasps prefer to nest underground. They build their nests in wood crevices and other areas where they can find a source of food and shelter.
