What do drones primarily do in a bee colony?

Drones are the male bees in a colony, and their primary role is to mate with the queen. During the mating flights, the drones seek out a queen from another hive, and successful mating results in the transfer of sperm, which the queen will use to fertilize eggs throughout her life. This mating process is crucial for the genetic diversity and vitality of the colony.

While drones do exist within the hive, they do not engage in tasks such as collecting nectar, protecting the hive, or assisting in foraging like worker bees do. These responsibilities are typically handled by the female worker bees, who are equipped with both the anatomical ability and the behavioral inclination to fulfill such roles. Thus, the mating function of drones is vital for the reproductive success of the colony, making it their primary duty.