Wasps enter a state of dormancy during the colder months rather than hibernating in the traditional sense. Generally, they seek shelter when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). In these conditions, most wasps will stop their foraging and may retreat to nests or other sheltered locations to conserve energy.
As the temperature continues to decrease, their metabolic rates slow down significantly, allowing them to survive the winter months. It’s important to note that only fertilized queen wasps will typically survive the winter. They will emerge in the spring when temperatures rise consistently above 50°F (10°C) to start new colonies. The rest of the wasp population, such as workers and males, usually dies off as the cold sets in.