During which season do worker bees typically have their shortest lifespan?

Worker bees typically have their shortest lifespan during the summer. This is due to several factors associated with the peak foraging season and the increased demands on the colony. During summer, workers are highly active, engaging in foraging for nectar and pollen, performing duties such as brood care, and keeping the hive temperature regulated. This high level of activity leads to physical wear and tear, reducing their overall lifespan.

In contrast, worker bees born in the fall and winter tend to live longer because they have a reduced workload and do not need to forage, allowing them to conserve energy. Spring workers may also have a shorter lifespan due to the increased activity as the colony ramps up for the foraging season, but they generally have more favorable conditions compared to their summer counterparts. Thus, summer is particularly demanding on worker bees, leading to a shorter lifespan during this season.