What do bees use to construct their hives?

Bees primarily use wax to construct their hives. Worker bees have specialized glands that secrete this wax in small scales, which they then chew and mold into honeycomb structures. The wax itself is a vital component of the hive as it provides the necessary framework for storing honey, pollen, and brood (developing bees). This construction material is essential for maintaining the hive's integrity and allowing the colony to thrive. Wax is unique in its ability to be molded easily when warmed, which is why it is the main substance used in hive building.