Why Can’t Wasps Fly When It’s Cold?
WouterDuring winter, wasps become more active. They are also more protective of the queen. They will try to get into the attic or build a nest there. This will eventually lead to a decline in the wasp colony.
The reason wasps do not fly when it’s cold is because they are not made to withstand extreme temperatures. Their bodies do not function efficiently when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why wasps die from cold weather.
In order to keep their bodies warm, they metabolize sugars. This process uses energy, which is far greater than the wasp’s ability to absorb oxygen. The wasp’s metabolic rate also drops when the temperature drops. Wasps may stay inactive for days at a time.
The nests of wasps can be found in many different locations, including homes, garages, sheds, and woodpiles. They may also be found in sheltered locations, like crevices near the roof line. In some cases, the nest can be so large that it will take up an entire room.
When temperatures drop to below freezing, wasps begin to hibernate. This allows them to avoid the cold weather. Wasps can also hibernate in attics and homes. They will build a nest in the attic or try to hide the queen inside the house.
Social wasps will also stop running their nests when temperatures drop. This is because they do not have the honey stores to last through winter. They will then turn to foragers to find the necessary food and protein.
