Where Do Wasps Lay Eggs?
WouterSeveral different species of wasps can be found in most parts of the world. Each species builds its nest to suit its needs. Some nests are small and compact, while others are large and elaborate. Some social wasp species prefer to nest in man-made structures. Others choose to nest in caves or underground.
When spring arrives, the queen wasp starts laying eggs in her nest. The sperm she has collected in autumn is used to fertilize the nest. The queen wasp is responsible for plant pollination, just like honey bees. The queen is the sole source of food nectar for the colony. The colony also does everything it can to keep the queen alive. The queen can starve to death if there is not enough food to go around.
When it is time to lay eggs, the queen wasp starts by searching for a suitable nesting site. She then fills the nest with worker wasps. The nest varies in size from a golf ball to a football. It can be found in woods, meadows, and hedgerows. It is usually built in a hollow space. It can be up to 30 cm wide.
After the queen is finished laying eggs, the worker wasps take over. They feed the larvae by catching insect food. They also use the nectar from flowers in the early spring. These worker wasps are more aggressive and are more likely to come in contact with humans.
When the weather gets cooler, the social structure of the wasp colony breaks down. The sterile female workers take over the job of feeding the larvae and construct an elaborate nest around the queen.
