How Wasps Make Nests
WouterSeveral wasp colonies build nests in different locations. Social wasps usually construct nests inside buildings. However, solitary wasps usually build nests beneath ground.
Regardless of where they build their nests, wasps have several common features. First, all wasp nests resemble paper on the outside. They are constructed of chewed wood fibers. They may also use saliva, paper pulp, or other materials. These materials can be very effective at building a nest.
The nest is also built in a way that ensures a stable internal temperature. They do this by layering the nest to protect the comb. In addition, wasps use stairs to move around their nest. They also use waxy wasp paste to prevent water from entering the nest.
A queen wasp begins to build her nest in spring after hibernating. She selects a spot to build her nest and begins to scrape wood fibers from the site. After she has completed her nest, she lays eggs in a hexagonal cell. The nest also has a stalk that ties the nest together.
When the weather is cold, the workers of the colony die. The queen, however, survives and emerges in the spring. She chooses a sheltered location to build her nest. The nest may be built in an attic, shed, or eaves.
Once the queen is ready to build her nest, she begins to fly to the site. She then spits out a pulp mixture that she mixes with wood fiber. She lays eggs in each cell. The nest grows with each generation. It is then wrapped in thin sheets of macerated pulp.
