Hornet Colony Behavior and Biology

In late summer, hornets gather energy-rich apple juice to prepare their colony for winter. They build intricate nests in hollow trees, expanding them with chewed wood pulp. Inside, workers feed larvae with apple juice, while the queen lays eggs. By late summer, the colony peaks at 700 workers, but none survive winter. Their efforts ensure a new queen and colony next spring.

What do hornets primarily gather from fallen apples in late summer?

• Seeds for storage

• Energy-rich juice

• Protein-rich pulp

• Leaves for nesting

Where do hornets typically build their nests?

• In underground burrows

• Inside hollow trees

• On open branches

• Under rocks

What material do hornets use to expand their nests?

• Grass and twigs

• Clay and sand

• Chewed wood pulp

• Mud and leaves

How long do hornets typically use a single nest?

• Several winters

• Two years

• One summer

• Indefinitely

What is the primary role of the workers inside the nest?

• Feeding the larvae

• Storing food

• Building new nests

• Guarding the entrance

What does the queen hornet do continuously inside the nest?

• Expands the nest

• Guards the entrance

• Lays eggs

• Feeds the workers

What is the peak population of the hornet colony in late summer?

• 1200 workers

• 1000 workers

• 500 workers

• 700 workers

What happens to the hornet colony during winter?

• They migrate to warmer areas

• They hibernate in the nest

• None survive the winter

• They store food for winter

What ensures the continuation of the hornet colony into the next spring?

• Rebuilding the old nest

• Stored food supplies

• A new queen

• Migration to a new location