Vespula germanica, Heesch, Netherlands

Found dead and dusty on the garden floor by Henriette. Together with Vespula vulgaris, this species is likely responsible for people's "proxy" fear to anything in a black/yellow jacket, including harmless hover-flies, bees and bumblebees.

Note the cool comma-shaped eyes. Another interesting detail are the 3 black spots above the jaws, these are an identification key to distinguish it from the very similar Vespula vulgaris:
http://www.ahw.me/img/vespula-germanica-vulgaris-kaken1b.html

comments (6)

Ruth Spigelman

Lion

Ooo...that is SO lovely! Smashing macro Ferdy and the colours are delightful. And I see the difference there on the link in regard the black spots, thank you. Posted 5 years ago
1. Ferdy Christant
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks so much! Only thing I'm unhappy about is the right antennae. Was hard to position, very loose as it was damaged. Posted 5 years ago
2. 1. Patomarazul
    
    Lion
    
    NG worth picture! Posted 5 years ago
  2. 1. Ferdy Christant
      
      Lion
      
      Awww, thanks! Posted 5 years ago

Christine Young

Lion

Whoa, love it! It has a fabulous punk hair-do. Posted 5 years ago
1. Ferdy Christant
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks :) Posted 5 years ago

The German wasp

Vespula germanica is a species of wasp found in much of the Northern Hemisphere, native to Europe, Northern Africa, and temperate Asia. It has spread and become well-established in many other places, including North America, South America, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.

Info 28 0

Similar species: Wasps, Bees, Sawflies And Ants

Species identified by Ferdy Christant