A yellow jacket is a type of wasp belonging to the family Vespidae. They are known for their distinctive yellow and black markings and are often found in North America. Yellow jackets are social insects that live in colonies, which can contain thousands of individuals. They are typically active during the warmer months and are attracted to food sources, especially sugary substances. These insects are important for the ecosystem as they help with pollination and control pest populations. However, yellow jackets can be aggressive, especially when their nests are disturbed. Their stings can be painful and may cause allergic reactions in some people, making caution necessary when encountering them.