North Carolina Bee School Practice Exam

How long is the average lifespan of a queen bee?

1. 1-2 Years

2. 2-3 Years

3. 4-5 Years

4. 5-6 Years

The correct answer is: 4-5 Years

The average lifespan of a queen bee typically ranges from 2 to 5 years, but it can vary depending on various factors such as the bee species, environmental conditions, and health. The choice of 4-5 years is within the normal lifespan range, with many queen bees being most productive during the first couple of years of their life. After about 3 years, their egg-laying ability often diminishes, which is when beekeepers may choose to replace them to maintain colony productivity. In contrast, the other options, while they have some validity in terms of queen bee lifespan extremes, do not accurately capture the most common length of life for a queen in a healthy and well-maintained hive. For instance, a lifespan of 1-2 years is typically too short for a queen bee, as they usually survive longer under optimal conditions. Similarly, lifespans extending up to 6 years are less common and typically not seen in most managed hives. Hence, the 4-5 year span is recognized as the most accurate reflection of a queen bee's active lifespan.