Yellow Jacket

Vespula species

Yellow jackets are wasps with a mean sting, and they should be avoided if possible. The female stings aggressively, especially when defending her nest. Yellow jackets are particularly attracted to picnics and will land on bits of sweets and other food. When picnicking, keep food covered!

Look For : A stout body boldly banded with yellow (or white) and black; abdomen slim where it attaches to the thorax, creating a "waist" (pedicel). Wings are dark.

Length : 5/8".

Habitat : Meadows, forests, urban and suburban areas.

Range : Widespread.