Aerial Yellowjackets

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dolichovespula: /ˌdɒlɪkoʊˈvɛspjʊlə/

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Summary

Dolichovespula maculata, known as the bald-faced hornet, is a large, eusocial wasp characterized by its distinctive black-and-white coloration, aggressive nature, and aerial nest construction. It plays a role in ecosystems through predation of pest insects while posing risks to humans near nests.

Physical Characteristics

Striking black-and-white coloring with a white head and three white stripes at the end of its body. Adults average about 19 mm (0.75 in) in length. Queens are larger than workers. Colonies can contain 400 to 700 workers, the largest recorded in its genus.

Identification Tips

Distinguished by its characteristic bald face and black-and-white coloration; larger than other species in the genus Dolichovespula.

Habitat

Prefers forested areas and vegetation in urban settings. Nests are typically located in trees and bushes, but can also be found under rock overhangs or on building sides.

Distribution

Distributed throughout the United States and southern Canada, most commonly found in the Southeastern United States.

Diet

Omnivorous, feeding on flies, caterpillars, spiders, nectar, tree sap, fruit pulp, and scavenging for meat.

Life Cycle

Completes an annual life cycle that includes founding, ergonomic, and reproductive stages. A single queen establishes a nest in spring and lays eggs that develop into workers; the colony typically lasts 4 to 5 months depending on location.

Reproduction

Queens mate with only one male, resulting in haploid males and diploid females. Workers can lay eggs that develop into males.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a beneficial role in controlling the population of various insect pests due to their predation habits.

Cultural Significance

Known colloquially as the bald-faced hornet, it carries various local names and is often recognized due to its aggressive nature and distinct appearance.

Health Concerns

Aggressive defense of nests can lead to multiple stings, posing risks to humans; the venom can cause temporary blindness if sprayed into the eyes.

Evolution

Believed to have diverged from other social wasps; displays unique haplodiploid genetic structure that affects colony dynamics.

Similar Taxa

• Vespula

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for true hornets (genus Vespa), though it is a type of yellowjacket.

Tags

• Dolichovespula
• bald-faced hornet
• yellowjacket
• wasp
• insect