How Do Wasps Make Their Nests?
Several species of wasps build nests. These nests vary in size, structure and location. These nests can be found inside buildings and trees. Some species build nests in barns, sheds and chimneys. They can also be found in closets and wardrobes.
The construction of the nest starts when the queen wasp arrives in the spring. She searches for a warm, dry place to build a nest. After finding a suitable location, she begins to scrape wood fiber from a source. She then mixes the wood fiber with saliva. These soft fibers are then dried to make a strong paper nest.
Wasps usually build nests in sheds, lofts, chimneys, eaves of barns and second floor windows. They also build nests in trees, atop roofs and in backyards. They build nests in wood, paper and mud.
These nests vary in size and shape, from small to very large. Some nests look like termite mounds, while others are paper or pottery-shaped. The nests are typically made of wood fibers, but they can also be made of mud. Some species use mud to strengthen the nest structure.
During the summer, the wasps will eat fruit and other fermenting materials. The wasps also gather nest materials from the nearby area. These materials include wood, paper, cardboard and other materials.
The nest construction process is usually slowed during times when there is a shortage of materials. The nest will naturally die off in the winter, due to lack of food sources.