Do bees sleep?

Sleep is necessary for bees in order to avoid impairments to communication, cognitive functions and general routine operations. Bees sleep for certain durations based on age and role, but routine sleep is considered a universal necessity for bees of all types.

During the sleep process, bees remain immobile while allowing their bodies and limbs to hang freely in the direction of gravity. Age and role affect the duration of sleep as well as the location in which the bee sleeps. Daytime sleep is a frequent activity for bees of all ages; different sleep intervals ensure that the bee hive is always operational.