Quick answer
Wasps (Vespula vulgaris) are insects found across Europe, Asia, North America, Oceania. The yellow-and-black predator and scavenger of summer. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.0001 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Up to ~25 km/h (16 mph) in flight, and live Workers a few weeks; queens about a year. They feed on omnivore (insects, nectar, sugary foods) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas worldwide; the common wasp is found across the Northern Hemisphere.
Key takeaway
Wasps (Vespula vulgaris) are insects found across Europe, Asia, North America, Oceania. The yellow-and-black predator and scavenger of summer. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.0001 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Up to ~25 km/h (16 mph) in flight, and live Workers a few weeks; queens about a year. They feed on omnivore (insects, nectar, sugary foods) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas worldwide; the common wasp is found across the Northern Hemisphere.
Wasp overview
Wasp (Vespula vulgaris) is a insect listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.0001 kg; lifespan around Workers a few weeks; queens about a year.
Wasp ecology
Diet: Omnivore (insects, nectar, sugary foods). Habitat: Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Wasps and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild wasps are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Wasp profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Wasps inhabit Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas worldwide; the common wasp is found across the Northern Hemisphere. Their preferred habitat includes gardens, woodlands, and urban areas, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Europe,
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult wasps typically measure about 0.017 m in length and weigh roughly 0.0001 kg (0 lb). They can sprint at Up to ~25 km/h (16 mph) in flight when hunting or escaping predators. Wasps are known for the yellow-and-black predator and scavenger of summer — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Wasp FAQs
What are key facts about wasps?
Wasps (Vespula vulgaris) are insects found across Europe, Asia, North America, Oceania. The yellow-and-black predator and scavenger of summer. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.0001 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Up to ~25 km/h (16 mph) in flight, and live Workers a few weeks; queens about a year. They feed on omnivore (insects, nectar, sugary foods) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas worldwide; the common wasp is found across the Northern Hemisphere.
What is the scientific name of the wasp?
Vespula vulgaris — used in research and conservation listings for wasps.
What do wasps eat?
Wasps eat insects, nectar and sugary foods, with seasonal and regional variation in Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas.
Where do wasps live?
They are associated with Gardens, woodlands, and urban areas. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of wasps?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.