Vespula vidua

How sneaky!

It is taking a shortcut and robbing nectar without pollinating the flower. I have seen this thievery many times, including some bumblebees; sometimes they are legitimate pollinators, others they cheat. Here and here.

… Beatriz Moisset, 19 September, 2009 - 4:37pm

Vespula vidua

Thanks Vespula and Eric for the ID and Beatriz for the info. I knew birds did this but it is the first time I have actually caught an insect in the act.
Naomi

… Naomi Smith, 20 September, 2009 - 9:45am

Vespula vidua

Thanks Beatriz for the info. I knew birds did this but it is the first time I have actually caught an insect in the act.
Naomi

… Naomi Smith, 20 September, 2009 - 9:42am

Moved

Moved from ID Request.

… Naomi Smith, 28 August, 2009 - 10:55pm

Yellowjacket in the Genus Vespula

Almost certainly Vespula vidua, but I would still move it to Genus level to be safe

The wasp could very well have chewed that hole...

… Vespula Vulgaris, 27 August, 2009 - 8:27pm

I'd confirm species.

I've seen a lot of these here in Amherst, MA the last few days, and the markings are consistent with vidua.

… Eric R. Eaton, 28 August, 2009 - 8:56am