Any of 35–40 species (genus Dolichovespula or Vespula ) of social wasps , principally of the Northern Hemisphere, named for the black bands on its yellow abdomen.
They differ from other wasps in having their wings folded longitudinally when at rest. Dolichovespula species typically build exposed nests. Vespula species build concealed nests underground or in protected cavities; when a nest is stepped on, the colony may erupt in an angry, stinging swarm. Nest size varies widely; some nests can be held in one hand, whereas nests in warmer climates may weigh half a ton.