Latin Name:  Dolichovespula maculata Linnaeus, 1763
                        (R. Bercha, det.)

Length:  13 mm

Range:  Throughout Alberta

Habitat:  Various

Time of year seen:  Spring to Fall (Additional Sightings)

Diet: Insects,  nectar and rotting fruit

Other:  A widespread species ranging through all of Alberta and  across the rest of Canada.  They are easily identified by their striking black and white markings and large size.  Nests are typically found above ground (usually high in trees) and contain 100 to 400 workers with one queen.  It is a beneficial insect that kills significant numbers of flies and occasionally yellow jackets.  Unless nests are in close proximity to human habitations, it should be left to go about its business and not viewed as a pest. (Akre et al, 1981)