Blackjacket (Vespula consobrina)

Habits:

Blackjackets are primarily located in more heavily forested areas. Adults are attracted to sugary secretions and collect protein for the larvae. Blackjackets are predators of live prey like spiders and phalangids ("Daddy Longlegs"). Colonies last for one year.

Nests:

Blackjacket nests are typically subterranean rodent burrows, but may be found in logs or rock cavities and buildings. Their colony size is usually small.

Nature toward humans:

Aggressiveness is often dependent on colony size, with larger colonies being more easily agitated. Blackjackets are not usually in contact with humans, so there is less possibility of stinging incidents -- although they have been a problem for loggers.

Other Yellowjacket species

Paper Wasps

Hornets