Eastern Yellowjacket Queen

Description:

The Eastern Yellowjacket is one of the most abundant yellowjacket species in eastern North America. In the spring fertilized queens construct a small comb nest underground or sometimes at ground level in tree stumps or fallen logs. The queen will hunt for insects and will frequently bring these chewed up insects to developing larvae until first workers emerge from pupal cases who will then take over all colony duties except egg-laying.

Habitat:

Eastern North America. This species is extremely adaptable; Forests, meadows and forest edges, including urban and suburban environments.

Notes:

Observed searching for prey in an area common to Monarch caterpillars.