During what period do worker bees typically have the shortest lifespan?

Worker bees generally experience their shortest lifespan during the summer months. This is primarily due to their intense activity during this period; as they forage for food, care for the brood, and maintain the hive, they experience significant wear and tear. The high temperatures and increased demands of foraging can lead to a shorter lifespan, often lasting only a few weeks during the peak of summer.

In contrast, during the winter, worker bees enter a more dormant state, clustering together for warmth and significantly reducing their activity. This lower activity level helps them conserve energy and can lead to a longer lifespan compared to the active summer foragers. Morning and evening do not affect the lifespan of worker bees in the same way, as their life cycle and roles do not significantly vary within those specific times of day.