How Many Wasps in a Hive?
WouterSeveral web sites state that the world’s largest wasp nest measured 18 feet in circumference and held over 100,000 wasps. This was in 1963.
A wasp hive is made up of a few closely related siblings. They have a lifespan of about 12 months. A single nest can have multiple queens. A queen wasp hibernates during the winter. When the weather warms up, she starts building her nest. This process continues until the colony declines.
A queen wasp has four transparent wings and a mouthpart that chews wood fibers into pulp. She will use this pulp to construct a nest. She also lays eggs in nest cells.
A wasp hive is usually constructed of wood material and wax. Workers are equipped with stingers for defense. They also transport food and materials back to the hive. These workers are usually aggressive when they are protecting their nest. They are also sometimes eaten by predators.
The nests of social wasp species are primarily found in hollow trees, abandoned buildings, and rock crevices. Some species also build nests in underground rodent burrows. These nests usually contain hundreds to thousands of wasps.
The nests of hornets and yellowjackets are also social. These insects have complete metamorphosis. They are also known as stinging insects.
A queen wasp will start building a nest when she is receptive to warm weather. She will search for wood fibers and build the nest in a suitable site. She also breaks down wood fibers with her saliva.
