What key structural feature differentiates a yellowjacket nest from a Paper Wasp nest?

Answer

Yellowjacket nests have a thick, papery envelope enclosing the combs.

The structural difference between yellowjacket nests and those of paper wasps (*Polistes* spp.) is distinct, particularly regarding external covering. Paper wasp nests are characterized by being open, umbrella-shaped combs, completely lacking any substantial outer covering. Conversely, yellowjackets construct their nests within a fully enclosed structure made of their chewed wood pulp, which provides a thick, protective, papery envelope surrounding the internal combs where the brood develops. Furthermore, paper wasps typically have longer legs that often dangle in flight, and their nests are usually only a single exposed comb, whereas yellowjacket nests feature multiple horizontal tiers contained within the envelope.

What key structural feature differentiates a yellowjacket nest from a Paper Wasp nest?

#Videos

"5 Things You Didn't Know About Yellow Jackets!" - YouTube

Related Questions

Which genera primarily include the insects commonly called yellowjackets?How do adult yellowjackets typically differ visually from bees?What defines the annual life cycle characteristic of a yellowjacket colony?What primary fuel source drives the late summer shift in yellowjacket feeding habits?Why are yellowjackets able to sting repeatedly, unlike honeybees?Which nest construction habit is common for species like the German Yellowjacket?What material do yellowjacket workers chew and mix with saliva to form their nest structure?After the first generation of sterile female workers matures, what is the queen's primary focus?What is explicitly advised against doing if a ground nest entrance is discovered?What primary nutritional requirement directs the hunting activity of yellowjackets in early summer?What key structural feature differentiates a yellowjacket nest from a Paper Wasp nest?
behaviorinsectstingyellowjacketwasp