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Bumble bee lifecycle and drone contributions to nest success. Bumble bee queens, the only caste to overwinter, emerge in late winter/early spring to begin foraging in order to initiate nests. Arrows indicate the progression of annual nest growth and development. Filled arrows indicate the presence of drones within the nest. Open arrows indicate events that are fulfilled by the queen. Aspects of nest growth, development, and success where drones make important are indicated by letters.
