How long does it take for a drone egg to emerge as an adult?

The correct duration for a drone egg to develop into an adult bee is approximately 24 days. This process includes several stages, beginning with the laying of the egg, which occurs in a drone cell. Once the egg hatches into a larva, it undergoes several instars, during which it is fed by nurse bees until it is big enough to pupate. The entire maturation process for drones takes about 24 days from the time the egg is laid until the adult emerges.

Understanding this timeline is critical for beekeepers, as it helps in planning for drone production and managing colonies effectively.