Western Yellowjacket vs Alder Spittlebug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Western Yellowjacket | Alder Spittlebug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Vespula pensylvanica | Aphrophora alni |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Vespidae | Aphrophoridae |
| Size | 11-16 mm | 8-10 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | Western North America from Alaska to Mexico | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Western Yellowjacket
The most common yellowjacket in western North America with a distinctive diamond-shaped black mark on its first abdominal segment. It is a frequent uninvited guest at outdoor picnics.
Did You Know?
In Hawaii, where it was accidentally introduced, it has become a serious invasive pest threatening native insects.
Alder Spittlebug
A common European spittlebug found on willows and alders. Nymphs produce copious frothy spittle masses and adults can jump impressive distances.
Did You Know?
The frothy spittle mass protects the nymph from temperature extremes, predators, and parasitoids while also preventing desiccation.