How Long Do European Wasps Live?

Typically, European wasps live for one year in a nest. They are usually built in sheltered places, such as hollow trees or buildings. They can also be built under ground.

European wasps usually have a single queen. This queen lays eggs in the nest. These eggs are laid in hexagonal paper cells. Once the eggs hatch, they form a grub-like larvae. The larvae feed on sweet substances and protein sources. In a few weeks, they develop into adult wasps.

These wasps are native to northern Europe. They have black bands that are arrow-shaped down the center of their abdomen. They also have small black spots on the yellow bands. They are shiny in appearance. They are also very aggressive and will sting if provoked.

During winter, the queen goes into hibernation. She may stay in this form for up to six months. After hibernation, she starts a new nest. In the spring, the queen begins laying eggs. These eggs will become the first workers of the new nest. These workers help the queen raise more workers.

During summer, the nest is constantly expanding. In autumn, the nest may contain as many as 100 cells. The queen lays eggs after finding a suitable nest site. These eggs are fertilised by the queen with sperm she has saved from hibernation.

The first workers develop into adult wasps. These wasps take on the roles of building the nest. These wasps also help the queen raise more workers.