How long does it take for a drone to develop into an adult?

The development of a drone bee from an egg to an adult typically takes about 24 days. This timeline includes several stages: the egg stage, which lasts for about 3 days; the larval stage, which lasts around 6 days; and then the pupal stage, which takes about 15 days. The entire process of development is somewhat longer than that of worker bees, primarily because of the size and specific developmental needs of drone bees. This correct answer emphasizes the longer maturation period required for drones as compared to the worker bees, which typically take about 21 days to reach maturity. Understanding this timeline is crucial for beekeepers, as it impacts the management of colonies and their population dynamics throughout the seasons.