How many days does it take for a worker bee egg to develop into an adult?

The development of a worker bee from egg to adult typically takes around 21 days. This timeline encompasses several distinct stages of development: the egg stage lasts for about three days, followed by the larval stage which lasts for about six days, and then the pupal stage takes roughly 12 days. Understanding this timeline is crucial for beekeepers as it helps them monitor hive health and anticipate the emergence of new bees to replace aging populations.

This information is vital in beekeeping management, particularly during periods when the colony is expanding or when there may be a need to replace lost or aging workers. Each life stage is carefully timed, and knowing the duration helps beekeepers plan for adequate resources and care for their colonies.