Vespidae is a family of wasps that includes species commonly known as yellowjackets and hornets. These insects are characterized by their slender bodies, narrow waists, and distinctive yellow and black coloration. Vespidae are social insects, often living in large colonies that can contain hundreds or thousands of individuals. They build nests from paper-like material made from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. Members of the Vespidae family are known for their predatory behavior, feeding on other insects and scavenging for food. They play a crucial role in ecosystems as both pollinators and pest controllers. Some species can be aggressive, especially when their nests are disturbed, making caution important when encountering them.