How do bees produce wax for their hives?

Bees produce wax using specialised glands located on their abdomens. Worker bees secrete tiny wax scales, which they chew and mould to construct honeycomb cells. These cells provide storage for honey, pollen, and brood. Wax production requires energy, and bees consume large amounts of honey to fuel the process. The hexagonal structure of the honeycomb is both efficient and strong, maximising storage capacity while minimising material use.