The European Yellowjacket is an introduced wasp that has become one of the most troublesome stinging insects in North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest where supercolonies containing hundreds of thousands of workers can form in mild winters. Workers are extremely aggressive defenders of the nest and can sting repeatedly. They are major scavengers at outdoor dining areas.
Best time to see a European Yellowjacket
The best time to see a European Yellowjacket is August–October, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 9,073 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a European Yellowjacket? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent European Yellowjacket sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an European Yellowjacket?
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