Why Do Wasps Need a Queen Wasp?
WouterDuring springtime, the queen wasp emerges from hibernation and begins to build a nest. This nest will contain eggs, larvae, and a brood comb. Wasp nests can be built both above ground and underground. They often build their nests in cavities, bird boxes, or even under the roof of a house.
The queen wasp has a triangular shaped head and bright yellow and black stripes. She can be about twice the size of the workers. Its wings can beat up to 247 times per second. Its hind legs provide it with stability during hibernation.
Queen wasps are solitary insects and are likely to be the queen. They must forage to feed the first worker larvae. This complex series of tasks takes several weeks.
A queen wasp may have several queens. One or more may die during winter due to starvation or other reasons. It may also come out of hibernation too early during warmer winters. This may lead to the collapse of the entire colony.
The queen wasp can be identified by its triangular shaped head, black and yellow stripes, and pointy waist. It has a mouthpart which is a series of tubes for sucking liquid. Its wings are made of chitin, a type of skeleton with veins.
The queen wasp’s job is limited to nest control. She must provide the larvae with a suitable nest and food. The larvae feed on protein-rich insects. During winter, the wasp needs a place to store fat for the following spring. The wasp’s wings fan to keep the temperature even.
