Bald-Faced Hornet

Actual Size: 12 to15 mm

Characteristics: Black with a white pattern on the face.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Habitat: Live in paper nests that are at least three feet off the ground, often in trees or on the sides of buildings.

Habits:

  • Typically appears in the late summer months.
  • Lives in colonies that may have between 100 to 400 members.
  • Known to be a more aggressive stinging insect and will sting when provoked.


Bald-Faced Hornets in Suffolk County & Nassau County

The bald-faced hornet greatly resembles its yellowjacket relatives and gets its name from the ivory-white markings on its face. Bald-faced hornets are relatively large flying insects and will defend their nests aggressively when they feel there is a threat. These beneficial wasps live in colonies with thousands of individuals and would be a lesser threat to humans if they did not nest in structural voids, attics, and cavities associated with landscaping features.

Bald-Faced Hornet Habitat

The bald-faced hornet is more likely to build its large, paper nest around areas where humans live, work, and play. These hornets build gray-colored, egg-shaped nests that can become quite large, some growing to 24 inches in length and 30 inches in diameter. Nests are created in spring and early summer by worker hornets chewing on natural wood fibers. Bald-faced hornets will construct nests in trees, under eaves, around light structures on buildings, and inside children’s playhouses. When the nest is finished, it will be the size of a football or basketball.

Bald-Faced Hornet Behavior, Threats, or Dangers

Bald-faced hornet stings are venomous and can cause pain and swelling for about 24 hours. People who are allergic to bee stings may have similar reactions to a bald-faced hornet sting. Bald-faced hornets scavenge in trash receptacles and forage upon food and beverages consumed outdoors. They also consume ripe fruit in gardens, farms, and vineyards. In the autumn, the combination of cooler temperatures and reduced food stimulates newly emerged reproductive wasps to seek warm shelter, and they are more likely to invade homes.

As with many stinging insects, these pests will sting if they feel threatened or their nest is in danger. If a nest is located near human activity, it is important to contact a professional hornet control company for stinging insect control or nest removal.

Bald-Faced Hornet FAQs

What do Bald-Faced Hornets look like?

Bald-faced hornets are large stinging insects with distinctive black and white coloring. They have a predominantly black body with white markings on their face, thorax, and the tip of the abdomen. These hornets are robust, measuring about 0.5 to 0.75 inches in length, and they are easily recognizable by their characteristic ivory-white markings. The face is almost entirely white, and they have a series of white stripes on the thorax and the first few segments of the abdomen. Their nests, often resembling a large, grayish football-shaped structure, are constructed from paper-like material and can be found hanging from trees, shrubs, or buildings.

What are the signs of Bald-Faced Hornets?

The presence of bald-faced hornets can be identified through several signs, including:

  • Nest: Bald-faced hornets build distinctive large, grayish, paper nests typically attached to trees, shrubs, or structures like buildings. The nests are often shaped like an inverted tear or football and can be quite conspicuous.
  • Flying Activity: Observing a higher-than-usual number of large black and white stinging insects in the vicinity, especially around the nest, is a clear indication of bald-faced hornets.
  • Audible Buzzing: Bald-faced hornets produce a distinct buzzing sound, especially when they are active around their nest. The buzzing may become more pronounced if the nest is disturbed.

What damage do Bald-Faced Hornets cause?

Bald-faced hornets can be problematic due to their aggressive defense of large nests. Their territorial nature makes them a threat to people, pets, and livestock, causing painful stings and potential allergic reactions. Nests built on structures may lead to property damage, impacting outdoor activities. Professional removal is advisable to mitigate these risks safely.

How do you prevent Bald-Faced Hornets?

Preventing bald-faced hornets involves taking proactive measures to discourage nesting near your property. Trim vegetation regularly to reduce potential nesting sites, seal openings in structures, and keep food sources, such as trash, securely sealed. Since DIY nest removal is risky, consider enlisting preventative pest control services. Professionals can identify and address potential nesting areas, implement protective measures, and provide ongoing monitoring to keep your property hornet-free. Regular inspections and swift action by pest control experts contribute significantly to effective and safe hornet prevention.

How do I get rid of Bald-Faced Hornets?

To safely and effectively get rid of bald-faced hornets, it’s highly recommended to seek professional assistance. The experts at Suburban Exterminating possess the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools needed to address hornet infestations efficiently and safely. These aggressive insects can pose a threat, especially when their large nests are disturbed. Suburban Exterminating offers comprehensive pest control services, including the safe removal of hornet nests, preventive measures, and ongoing monitoring to ensure your property remains hornet-free. Don’t take unnecessary risks – call Suburban Exterminating for a swift and expert solution to your bald-faced hornet problem.

Can Bald-Faced Hornets hurt me?

Yes, bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) can pose a threat to humans. While they are not inherently aggressive, they are highly territorial and will defend their nests vigorously if they perceive a threat. Bald-faced hornets can deliver painful stings, and their venom may cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals. Unlike honey bees, bald-faced hornets can sting repeatedly. It is advisable to exercise caution around their nests and seek professional assistance for their safe and effective removal to minimize the risk of stings and potential health issues.