If insects could experience human emotions, V. flavopilosa would probably have an identity crisis. This species (sometimes called a Hybrid Yellowjacket) is so named because it's thought to be a cross between the Eastern and German Yellowjacket, and possibly related to the Common and Western Yellowjacket. Like these other species, Transition Yellowjackets have yellow and black coloration and a stout body, and are roughly 1/2 inch in length.
V. flavopilosa is also occasionally called the "Downy Yellowjacket" or "Yellow-haired Yellowjacket" because of the fine yellow hairs all over its body.
Transition Yellowjackets will scavenge for meats and sugary foods, and may be pests around trash cans and outdoor activities.
Transition Yellowjacket nests are subterranean, tan in color, and carton-shaped. The nests will have between 500 and 1000 workers at peak size. Common nest sites are in yards, along roadsides and within manmade structures.
Transition Yellowjackets are "picnic pests" and may be a hazard if agitated while they are scavenging. They are also a stinging hazard if the nest is disturbed.