How do bees make wax?

Bees make wax through a fascinating process that involves several steps. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Bees consume honey: Bees start by consuming honey collected from flowers.
2. Specialized glands: Bees have specialized glands on their abdomen called wax glands.
3. Secretion of wax: The bees then secrete small flakes of wax through these wax glands.
4. Chewing and shaping: Bees chew the wax flakes and mix them with saliva to soften them and make them pliable.
5. Construction of honeycomb: Bees use the softened wax to construct intricate honeycomb structures within the hive.
6. Storage and use: The honeycomb cells serve as storage units for honey, pollen, and eggs.
7. Temperature control: Bees maintain the temperature of the hive by regulating the thickness of the wax walls.

This process of wax production and honeycomb construction is essential for the survival of the bee colony and plays a crucial role in the overall functioning of the hive.