Western Yellowjacket vs Lobster Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Western Yellowjacket | Lobster Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Vespula pensylvanica | Stauropus fagi |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Vespidae | Notodontidae |
| Size | 11-16 mm | 45-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Herbivores |
| 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.
Lobster Moth
A moth whose young caterpillar mimics an ant and mature caterpillar resembles a lobster.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar raises its swollen tail and thoracic legs in a bizarre threat display.