Dolichovespula saxonica
This record describes Dolichovespula saxonica (species). Recorded family: Vespidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
It is a very close relative of Dolichovespula norwegica but lacks the pair of red spots on the second gastral tergum (but note, these markings are also absent in some specimens of Dolichovespula norwegica). Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. This wasp has been found in both urban and rural areas within south-east England. The species seems to be particularly widespread on heathland in West Sussex and North Hampshire. No published records in Britain, but probably April to August. Nests occur in aerial locations. There are records of them suspended from the branches of bushes, from beneath the eaves of houses (sometimes in quite built-up areas) (Colvin, 1992), beneath rafters and roofs in barns and sheds, under a park bench, on the sides of buildings, and in a cavity wall. The nest paper is generally pale grey, being built from fibres apparently collected from sound, weathered wood. The nest entrance usually has a thick, lip-like rim. The first British record of this species came from Surrey in July 1987. Although it is still more numerous in the south and east of Britain it has also managed to move further north into Scotland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Vespidae
- Genus
- Dolichovespula
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
This wasp has been found in both urban and rural areas within south-east England. The species seems to be particularly widespread on heathland in West Sussex and North Hampshire.
Seasonal Activity
No published records in Britain, but probably April to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Nests occur in aerial locations. There are records of them suspended from the branches of bushes, from beneath the eaves of houses (sometimes in quite built-up areas) (Colvin, 1992), beneath rafters and roofs in barns and sheds, under a park bench, on the sides of buildings, and in a cavity wall. The nest paper is generally pale grey, being built from fibres apparently collected from sound, weathered wood. The nest entrance usually has a thick, lip-like rim.
Additional species information
Recorded status
The first British record of this species came from Surrey in July 1987. Although it is still more numerous in the south and east of Britain it has also managed to move further north into Scotland.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Dolichovespula saxonica. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hymenoptera includes over 150,000 described species of ants, bees, wasps, and sawflies. Earth harbors approximately 20 quadrillion (20×10^15) ants, with a combined biomass of ~12 megatons of dry carbon - exceeding the combined biomass of all wild birds and mammals (PNAS, 2022).
Ecological role of the group
About 35% of the world's food crops depend on animal pollinators. The chocolate industry, valued at over $100 billion, depends on pollinating flies and midges. Ants are the dominant soil engineers in most terrestrial ecosystems, turning more soil than earthworms in many habitats.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Pollinators contribute $235-577 billion worth of annual global food production (FAO). In the U.S., bee pollination alone benefits crops valued at $18 billion annually, and honey bees are responsible for $5.4 billion in agricultural productivity. Between April 2023-2024, 55.1% of managed honey bee colonies were lost. The U.S. bee population dropped from 5 million to 2.5 million.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, USDA, EPA, PNAS (2022), US Fish & Wildlife Service. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Dolichovespula saxonica (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolichovespula saxonica
What is Dolichovespula saxonica?
Dolichovespula saxonica is a species in the family Vespidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
Where is Dolichovespula saxonica found?
Habitat: This wasp has been found in both urban and rural areas within south-east England. The species seems to be particularly widespread on heathland in West Sussex and North Hampshire.
When is Dolichovespula saxonica active?
Dolichovespula saxonica: seasonal activity - No published records in Britain, but probably April to August..
What is the life cycle of a Dolichovespula saxonica?
Nests occur in aerial locations. There are records of them suspended from the branches of bushes, from beneath the eaves of houses (sometimes in quite built-up areas) (Colvin, 1992), beneath rafters and roofs in barns and sheds, under a park bench, on the sides of buildings, and in a cavity wall. The nest paper is generally pale grey, being built from fibres apparently collected from sound, weathered wood. The nest entrance usually has a thick, lip-like rim.