How Wasps Build Nests
WouterDuring summer, wasps build nests all over. They use any type of material that can provide them with substantial support, such as wood. They often choose a corner of a house or tree for their nest. The nests can be large, containing thousands of wasps.
The nests are made of wood fibers and a paste-like pulp. The pulp is formed by chewing wood particles. The pulp is then put together in layers to create the inside of the nest. The papery walls are shaped like leaves.
The nests vary in size and shape, depending on the species of wasps that are building them. They are generally built in places that provide ample protection from weather conditions and intruders. For example, eaves and porch ceilings are popular places for nesting.
The nests usually start in spring. The queen wasp is the first to start building them. The queen will make a rudimentary nest for herself and lay eggs. These eggs will eventually hatch into adult wasps. The worker wasps will take over the nest’s construction when they are mature.
After the nest has been completed, the wasp queen leaves the nest. The worker wasps stay in the nest for a few months. When the weather begins to warm, the wasps start feeding the young.
When winter comes, the wasps will go into hibernation. The queen will then emerge in the spring and begin building a new nest. The nest will grow in size as the queen wasp lays eggs. The nest will eventually contain over 5,000 wasps.
