Try for Free
tab list
Picture Insect
English
arrow
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Home Application Download FAQ
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Icon about
About
Icon about
General Info
Icon about
Search Tips
Icon about
Harmful or Not
Icon about
Harmful Effects
Icon about
Beneficial Effects
Icon about
Common FAQs
Icon about
Similar Insects
Icon about
Popular Insects
Saxon wasp

Saxon wasp

Dolichovespula saxonica

A species of Aerial yellowjackets

Sporting a striking contrast of black and yellow markings on its body, saxon wasp is known for its expertise in aerial maneuverability, which allows it to capture prey mid-flight or evade threats. As a forager of diverse diets, it sustains itself on nectar, fruits, and insects, with an intriguing preference for caterpillars during its larval stage. Adult members of this species are also recognized for their role in pollination, inadvertently contributing to the health of many ecosystems as they visit various flowers.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Saxon wasp sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About Saxon wasp
Instantly identify insects with a snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on bite assessment, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safe interaction tips, etc.
Download the App for Free
Rectangle
Attributes of Saxon wasp
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
The Saxon wasp is commonly found in most of Europe and in northern and central Asia. Areas where the species can be commonly found include the United Kingdom (Southern only), the Czech Republic, northern France, and the Netherlands. Within these areas, the nests of D. saxonica can be found hanging freely in various forest types, the open countryside, and wooded hills. Since these wasps are aerial nesters, the nests are often hanging on tree branches or shrubs, a couple meters off the ground. Urban areas are also suitable habitats for D. saxonica. As a result, their nests have been found under roofs, porches, park benches, and on the sides of buildings. Despite this flexibility in nesting sites, rarely are subterranean nests found.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, fruit juices, insects, honeydew, spiders
Larva Food Source
Insects, caterpillars, flies, aphids, spiders
Biting/stinging
The Saxon wasp may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Saxon wasp has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Saxon wasp can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Saxon wasp is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Saxon wasp feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
The Saxon wasp typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
qrcode
Img download isoImg download android
Rectangle
Species Status of Saxon wasp
Common
Rectangle
Distribution Area of Saxon wasp
Europe, northern and central Asia
Rectangle
Appearance of Saxon wasp
D. saxonica is similar to its yellowjacket relatives with the black and yellow stripes on its body. However, the Saxon wasp is larger than most of its relatives and can also be identified by the three dots on its head. The Saxon queens are largest with a body length ranging from 15–19 mm (.59–.75 in), while the males range from 13–15 mm (.51–.59 in) and the workers from 11–15 mm (.43–.59 in). The male body consists of a copulatory casing at the end of their gaster and seven gastral tergites – hardened plates, or sclerites that are divided on the dorsal side of the body – and sternites, which are sclerites on the ventral side of the thorax. On the other hand, the female has six gastral tergites and sternites and a sting at the end of their gaster. D. saxonica is an aerial nester, meaning that the wasps build their nests above ground, often in trees, shrubs, or buildings. The nests of D. saxonica are ball-shaped and can be roughly 250 mm (9.8 in), which is small relative to other wasp nests. Nest construction is done quickly, allowing the nest population to increase rapidly. On average, nests contain three to five combs, while a large nest can contain up to five. The Saxon wasps build their nests from rotting wood, using the fibres from the wood to form a grey coloured nest that can contain yellow lines or patches on the exterior. The external side of the nest is smooth and does not have any ventilation holes. Instead, there is a single opening at the bottom where wasps can enter and exit and where waste can leave the nest.
ImageImageImageImageImage
Rectangle
Life Cycle of Saxon wasp
Egg Upon being laid, the egg of saxon wasp is minuscule and elongated. Sheltered in a nest, it lacks mobility and distinct features, serving merely as a developmental vessel.
Larva The larva emerging from the egg is worm-like, lacking wings and hardened body parts. Growing through molting, its only function is to feed voraciously to store energy.
Pupal Encased in a cocoon, the pupa undergoes drastic changes. It appears motionless but is transforming internally, developing wings, legs, and adult structures within its protective shell.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult saxon wasp flaunts a hard exoskeleton, functional wings, and mature reproductive organs. Now highly mobile, it focuses on feeding, mating, and in some cases, colony responsibilities.
Rectangle
Predators of Saxon wasp Larvae
Frogs and toads, birds, jumping spiders, mantises
Rectangle
Predators of Adult Saxon wasp
Birds, jumping spiders, mantises, dragonflies
Rectangle
Interesting Facts About Saxon wasp
Despite their alarming appearance, saxon wasp can exhibit a surprising behavior of 'greeting' other members of their hive by antennal contact.
Rectangle
Scientific Classification of Saxon wasp
Tips for Finding Saxon wasp
Your ultimate guide to understanding insects
Unlock the secrets of insect life cycles, habitats, behaviors and observation tips!!
Download the App for Free
Rectangle
Youth Habitat of Saxon wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Rectangle
Adult Habitat of Saxon wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Rectangle
Habitat Preferences of Saxon wasp Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of saxon wasp are typically found in paper-like nests attached to tree branches, shrubs, or occasionally on structures. These nests are also where the pupae develop, enveloped inside the nest's cells. Adult saxon wasp tend to frequent flowers and other vegetation-rich areas in search of food and nesting materials. When searching for larvae and pupae, one would examine the nests, carefully opening them if permitted, ensuring not to harm the inhabitants. To find adults, observing flowering plants and gardens, particularly during sunny days when they are most active, provides the best chance of spotting them.
Are Saxon wasp harmful?
Your Complete Pest Control Guide
Discover effective tips for preventing and eliminating pest infestations to keep bugs away from your home.
Download the App for Free
Rectangle

Are Saxon wasp harmful to humans?

The female wasp has a long thick stinger connected to the poison gland. The main components of the venom are some alkaline substances, including histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, hyaluronidase, etc. When it is stung, it will shoot venom into the skin of the person, but the sting needle is not left in the leather suit. After a person is stung by a wasp, the stinged skin will immediately become red, swollen and painful, even with petechiae and skin necrosis. When the eye is stung, it will cause severe pain, tearing, redness and swelling, and may also cause corneal ulcers. In addition, systemic symptoms include dizziness, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, restlessness, and increased blood pressure. The above symptoms usually disappear within a few hours to several days. In severe cases, drowsiness, systemic edema, oliguria, coma, hemolysis, myocarditis, hepatitis, acute renal failure and shock. Some people allergic to bee venom can manifest as urticaria, anaphylactic shock, etc.
Harmful Effects of Saxon wasp
Reveal the harmful impacts of diverse insects
Explore the dangers of insects related to toxicity, lethality, human biting, human stinging, pathogenicity, hematophagy, allergenicity, parasitism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Icon toxic for
Toxic to Humans
Icon toxic for
Toxic to Animals
Icon toxic for
Human Stinging
Rectangle
Toxic to Humans

Saxon wasp possesses a defensive sting used to subdue prey and deter predators, including humans. Its venom contains neurotoxins that can cause localized pain, swelling, and redness. While typically mild with temporary discomfort, severe cases can involve intense pain, nausea, and headaches. Repeated stings or individual sensitivity might escalate to more serious conditions, but this is uncommon in human encounters with saxon wasp.

Rectangle
Toxic to Animals

Saxon wasp releases toxins as a means of defense which can vary from mild to severe in its effects. When these toxins come into contact with other animals, typically through skin penetration at the joints or ingestion, the reaction may differ. For instance, humans and dogs might experience irritation or discomfort, while birds and frogs could exhibit more severe reactions. Even some insects, which are often more resistant, can be adversely affected by the larvae and adults of saxon wasp.

Rectangle
Does the Saxon wasp sting humans?

Saxon wasp sting humans typically in defense of their nests or when provoked. The stinging is often a female's role, as males lack the stinger. A sting injects venom, causing pain and possible allergic reactions in humans. Unlike bees, saxon wasp can sting multiple times without self-harm, making encounters potentially more threatening.

More Effects of Saxon wasp

Beneficial Effects of Saxon wasp
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
Download the App for Free
Pollinator
Predators of Pests
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Saxon wasp assists in pollination primarily through accidental contamination while feeding on nectar. Attracted by the vivid colors and enticing scents of flowers, they inadvertently collect pollen on their bodies. As they move from flower to flower, they transfer pollen, facilitating the fertilization of plants.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults
Purpose
Feed Itself, Feed Offspring
Diets
Aphids, Caterpillars
Saxon wasp is an avid predator, hunting primarily during its adult and larval stages. It preys on pests to nourish itself and its developing offspring. Its favored diet includes aphids and caterpillars. Notably, saxon wasp is efficient in controlling pest populations in its habitat, thus benefiting agriculture.
Common Questions People Also Ask
Get Quick Insect Answers with a Snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and answers on bites, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safety tips!
Download the App for Free
More Insects that are Similar to Saxon wasp
Western paper wasp
Western paper wasp

The western paper wasp (Mischocyttarus flavitarsis) either live in forests close to rivers or on the underside of rooves near humans. Contrary to what you may believe, they actually don't like to sting as a first option. Instead, they would rather headbutt the threatening presence away. They are omnivores that feed on everything from other insects to nectar to animal corpses.

Read More
Arrow
Yellow paper wasp
Yellow paper wasp

Ropalidia romandi is unique for its overall yellow color, with dark brown markings on its thorax and abdomen. Measuring around 1.2 cm, Ropalidia romandi is considered small. The first segment of the abdomen in Ropalidia is narrower than the following segments. Ropalidia romandi's front wings fold lengthwise when resting, which is a common characteristic of paper wasps.

Read More
Arrow
Ropalidia sumatrae
Ropalidia sumatrae

Renowned for its eusocial lifestyle, ropalidia sumatrae constructs intricate nests out of fibrous plant material, meticulously chewed and shaped with their strong mandibles. Primarily inhabiting the lush territories of the Southeast Asian rainforests, these creatures display a fascinating division of labor among nest mates, which is pivotal for their survival and efficiency.

Read More
Arrow
European potter wasp
European potter wasp

The European potter wasp or European tube wasp (Ancistrocerus gazella) is a species of potter wasp. As an imago (adult), the female collects as many as 20 caterpillars for each nest, which consists of a single cell. Her larval offspring then feed on these inside the nest, which is sealed with mud arranged by her. As adults, they eat nectar and aphid honeydew. Males cannot sting, and the sting of a female is not painful. They can be found on windows, foraging for nectar on flowers, or searching out small cracks or holes in which to nest.

Read More
Arrow
Smiling mason wasp
Smiling mason wasp

The Ancistrocerus campestris is primarily identified with the angry-looking smiley face on its back. When you aren't getting into a scowling match with their back, you may be admiring the unique nests that these types of insects make. The variety of nests puts them in a group of other wasps known "potter wasps." 

Read More
Arrow
Bramble mason wasp
Bramble mason wasp

Bramble mason wasp differentiate themselves by their ability to mason cobblestone-like nests using pebbles. Unlike many other insects, their breeding sees the female solitary, constructing its offspring's dwelling in hollow structures. Additionally, these wasps play a critical role in environments, acting as efficient pollinators and aiding plant propagation. Furthermore, bramble mason wasp, as predators, help manage arachnid populations, providing an element of natural pest control.

Read More
Arrow
Ancistrocerus unifasciatus
Ancistrocerus unifasciatus

Read More
Arrow
Oriental hornet
Oriental hornet

The oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) is a polyphagous insect (the adults are vegetarian and the larvae eat animal protein) that communicates with sound vibrations underground. Otherwise, they are considered a pest to honey bees, as they attack them in order to steal honey and other proteins. While they are jerks to others, their internal community has everyone working for the good of the colony.

Read More
Arrow
Other Popular Insects
Western honey bee
Western honey bee

Western honey bee(Apis mellifera) is the most common species of honeybee in the world. Among the first domesticated insects, its cultural and economic impact on humanity has been vast and far-reaching, providing honey, wax and its services as a pollinator. Western honey bee faces challenges worldwide, such as colony collapse disorder, and populations are thought to be decreasing.

Read More
Arrow
Monarch butterfly
Monarch butterfly

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is the most recognizable butterfly in North America. It is best known for its appearance, but should be better known for the fact that it has a 3000-mile migration that takes the butterfly 4 generations to complete. Their diet is also a natural deterrent for predators, as they eat milkweed, a poison that induces vomiting.

Read More
Arrow
Japanese rhinoceros beetle
Japanese rhinoceros beetle

The japanese rhinoceros beetle (Trypoxylus dichotomus) is a massive beetle about the size of the palm of a hand. It's distinguished by its long Y-shaped horn, which it uses to fight other males with. It's a nocturnal bug that feeds on sap and sweet fruits. This species is sometimes kept as a pet due to its unique appearance and simple care requirements.

Read More
Arrow
Silkworm
Silkworm

The silken threads produced by silkworm during its larval stage have been highly coveted for millennia, manifesting as a luxurious fabric in human society. Remarkably, this creature has a singular diet, feeding exclusively on the leaves of its primary host plant from which it extracts the necessary nutrients to facilitate its transition into a non-feeding, winged adult.

Read More
Arrow
Menelaus blue morpho
Menelaus blue morpho

Menelaus blue morpho (Morpho menelaus) is a gorgeous butterfly with large, royal blue wings. Linnaeus named the genus Morpho the Aphrodite-Ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty for its extreme beauty. It is native to tropical rainforests. Though many butterfly gardens now cultivate them in captivity, there are still many people who never get a chance to see them.

Read More
Arrow
Atlas moth
Atlas moth

While the atlas moth (Attacus atlas) can't tell you where to find your country on the map, it does earn its name through other means. It is one of the largest moths in the world, with a wingspan that is far larger than its body, creating an abnormal comparison. In India, their silk is gathered in a non-commercial capacity and is considered to be more durable than the domestic silkworm.

Read More
Arrow
Flying peacock spider
Flying peacock spider

Both sexes reach about 5 mm in body length. Females and immatures of both sexes are brown but have color patterns by which they can be distinguished from related species. Also, the males dance to attract females.

Read More
Arrow
Multicolored asian ladybeetle
Multicolored asian ladybeetle

Often confused for the ladybug, multicolored asian ladybeetle (Harmonia axyridis) is a separate species that, unlike the ladybug, is a household pest. It is considered particularly annoying for its habit of returning to places from which it is removed. One of the most variable species in the world, there are many different colors and patterns multicolored asian ladybeetle may display, making identification potentially difficult.

Read More
Arrow