What is the average lifespan of a worker honey bee?

The average lifespan of a worker honey bee is approximately 6 weeks. This duration can vary based on several factors, such as the bee's role within the colony, environmental conditions, and seasonal variations. Worker bees that emerge in the spring or summer tend to live for about 6 weeks because they are typically busy foraging for nectar and pollen, caring for the brood, and maintaining the hive. Their life cycle is adapted to the needs of the colony during peak foraging times, so they are more active and expend more energy.

In contrast, worker bees born in the fall have a longer lifespan of several months. They are not as active as their summer counterparts and are primarily focused on preparing the hive for winter survival. This extended lifespan allows them to overwinter and emerge as new workers in the spring, contributing to the colony's continuity. Therefore, understanding that the 6-week lifespan pertains specifically to the active foraging season helps clarify why this choice is the most accurate representation of the average worker bee's life.