Western Yellowjacket vs Red-tailed Bumblebee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Western Yellowjacket | Red-tailed Bumblebee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Vespula pensylvanica | Bombus lapidarius |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Vespidae | Apidae |
| Size | 11-16 mm | 11-22 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Western North America from Alaska to Mexico | Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Europe |
| 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.
Red-tailed Bumblebee
A jet-black bumblebee with a vivid orange-red tail that is unmistakable in flight. It commonly nests underground in old mouse burrows and stone walls.
Did You Know?
Its nest name 'lapidarius' means 'of stones' because it often nests beneath rocks and walls.