How Long Do Wasps Take to Build a Nest?
WouterDuring the warm summer months, wasps are extremely active. They construct nests in all kinds of places. Typically, they prefer to construct their nests on high places, such as the eaves of homes. However, there are many different kinds of wasps, and they may have different nest construction methods.
The size of a wasp nest varies from species to species, but generally, it isn’t very large. Some wasps, such as yellowjackets, build football-shaped nests, while other wasps, like bald-faced hornets, build underground nests. Some wasps also use mud to strengthen their nests.
The queen wasp, or mating wasp, is responsible for starting a new colony. She selects a site for her nest, which she will construct using a pulp-like substance. During this process, she breaks down wood fibers with her saliva. The resulting pulp dries to form a sturdy paper nest.
Once the nest is established, the queen produces eggs and begins laying them. Her larvae feed on arthropods for about 1.5 months before they transform into pupae.
During the summer months, worker wasps are drawn to light in the home. They are then recruited to assist the queen in expanding the nest. Once the nest has reached a certain size, the worker wasps begin to die off. This process continues throughout the summer.
The queen wasp also spends the winter months in hibernation, spending her time asleep. When spring comes, she emerges from hibernation and begins building her nest. She then searches for wood fibers to use in her nest. She also begins searching for a place to start a new colony. She will select a safe and warm place to build her nest. The nest will grow in size until it reaches its peak in the fall.
