Dolichovespula maculata (Linnaeus)

Kimsey, Lynn S. & Carpenter, James M., 2012, The Vespinae of North America (Vespidae, Hymenoptera), Journal of Hymenoptera Research 28, pp. 37-65 : 43

Dolichovespula maculata (Linnaeus) Figs 2, 6, 9 33 52, 57

Vespa maculata Linnaeus 1763:412. Lectotype female; “Pensylvania” (STOCKHOLM).

Vespa maculata americana Christ 1791:239. Type destroyed; "mitternachtlichen Amerika". Nec Vespa americana Fabricius 1775.

Distribution.

The species occurs throughout North America.

Biology.

This is the only Dolichovespula in North America with the anterior part of the metasoma completely black, and the pale markings are always whitish. It builds aerial nests, which are usually found in exposed places such as hanging from tree branches. These wasps usually feed on live prey, particularly spiders and flies.

Figures

Figures 2 - 13. 11 - 12 Front view of face 5 - 7 Dorsal view of head 8 - 10 Lateral view of head 11 Dorsal view of thorax 12, 13 Lateral view of male metasomal tergum VII.

Figures 26 - 37. Dorsal view of worker metasoma.

Figures 48 - 53. Lateral view of genital capsule in Dolichovespula (Dolichovespula) 54 - 58 Ventral view of genital capsule.