Vespula maculata, commonly known as the eastern yellowjacket or colonial yellowjacket, is a species of wasp belonging to the family Vespidae. It is native to North America, particularly the eastern United States and parts of Canada.
The eastern yellowjacket is a medium-sized wasp with distinctive yellow and black markings on its body. It has a slim and elongated body shape, with a narrow waist and slender antennae. It possesses a strong sting, making it a potential nuisance and hazard to humans, especially during late summer and early fall when its colonies reach their peak population size.
This species is highly social, living in large colonies that can contain thousands of individuals. The colonies are typically located underground, in old rodent burrows or other cavities. Eastern yellowjackets are known for their aggressive behavior and territorial defense, often attacking perceived threats with quick and repeated stings.
Their diet primarily consists of sugars obtained from floral nectar, fruits, and other sugar-rich sources. Additionally, they are opportunistic predators, feeding on insects, spiders, and carrion. They play a role in pollination and pest control due to their foraging habits.
Eastern yellowjackets have ecological importance, but they can also be considered pests due to their tendency to establish colonies near human dwellings. Their presence poses a risk of painful stings, and they can become a nuisance during outdoor activities, particularly picnics, camping trips, and barbecues.
Efforts to control populations are often undertaken to mitigate the conflicts between humans and yellowjackets, especially in areas where they are known to be invasive.
