Fauna
Insect · GBIF taxon 1311671

Common European Yellowjacket

Vespula vulgaris

Also known as Common Wasp, European Wasp

Common European yellowjackets construct intricate subterranean paper nests from chewed wood pulp and saliva to shelter thousands of individuals. Sterile female workers actively hunt soft-bodied insect pests and gather sugary plant secretions to feed developing larvae and their queen throughout the spring and summer. Colony populations peak in autumn, driving workers to scavenge aggressively for sugars and proteins before the onset of winter.

Social InsectVenomousCommon Insect
Common European Yellowjacket reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Tom, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Tom · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Caterpillars
  • Flies
  • Spiders
Predators
  • European Honey Buzzard
  • Eurasian Badger
  • Robber Flies
ThreatsPesticide exposure, severe winter freezes, and nest destruction
HabitatsWoodlands, meadows, gardens, urban areas, and hedge rows
Life spanWorkers 12–22 days; Queens up to 1 year
Classification
  1. OrderHymenoptera
  2. FamilyVespidae
  3. GenusVespula
  4. SpeciesVespula vulgaris
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskVery high
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is very high
Stings defensively when nests are approached; observe foraging workers from a safe distance without sudden movements.
Why it is dangerous
Injected venom causes sharp localized pain and can provoke severe allergic anaphylaxis in sensitized individuals.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by black-and-yellow bands across the abdomen and an anchor-shaped black mark on the face.
What to do
Remain stationary or back away slowly if a wasp hovers near you, avoiding sudden arm motions.
Responsible observation
  • Nest Safety: Keep at least five meters clear of ground nest openings to avoid defensive mass swarming.
  • Outdoor Dining: Cover sweet beverages and protein foods at picnic tables to prevent attracting foraging workers.
  • Calm Demeanor: Move slowly and avoid swatting if a yellowjacket approaches, as rapid movements incite stinging.
Related species
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