Do Honey Bees Sleep?

We get this question all the time!

Yes, honey bees do sleep! However, their sleep patterns differ from those of humans. Bees don’t have a set sleep schedule but instead take short naps throughout a 24-hour cycle. Their “micro-naps” typically last between 30 seconds and a few minutes.

Young worker bees sleep less because they are busy with hive tasks. As they age and take on foraging responsibilities, their sleep becomes more regular, helping them stay alert and efficient during the day. Foraging bees usually sleep at night, inside the hive. When a bee sleeps, it enters a state of immobility, and its antennae stop moving. Research shows that well-rested bees are more efficient and better at communication, particularly through their signature “waggle dance,” which they use to direct fellow bees to food sources.

Sleep is essential for honey bees to maintain their productivity and overall health, just like it is for us!