The average lifespan of honey bees in the wild varies depending on their role within the hive. Worker bees, which are female and responsible for tasks such as collecting nectar and pollen, tending to larvae, and protecting the hive typically live between 4-6 weeks during peak season when there is plenty of work to be done.
Queen bees, on the other hand, have a much longer lifespan than workers since they are responsible for laying eggs and maintaining the health of the hive. A queen bee can live up to 2-3 years if she is healthy and well-cared for by her worker bees.