Nests on the surface of the ground, frequently in long grass on roadside banks, sometimes in moss or in garden compost heaps. The cocoons are deep yellow, and the wax is very dark (Sladen, 1912; Alford, 1975). Free & Butler (1959) and Alford (1975) illustrate occupied nests of this species. The nests are small, on average containing 25-30 individuals (Lie-Petersen, 1901). Hasselrot (1962) states that the number of offspring produced is somewhat higher than this.