Bald-Faced Hornet
Category: Stinging
Scientific Name: Dolichovespula maculata
Identification:
Color: Black with white-patterned face
Size: 12-15 mm long
Region: Found throughout the United States
Lifespan: 4 months
Important Considerations:
- Unlike many other stinging insects, bald-faced hornets are highly aggressive and will sting humans without provocation. They will attack anything that invades their space, and sting repeatedly.
- Hornet stings are painful, itchy, and swell. In addition, even a single sting can turn dangerous for anyone who is allergic.
- Hive removal should be left to professionals. It is extremely difficult to remove an entire colony on your own and attempts to do so will likely leave you with many stings.
Where to Find Them on Your Property?
Bald-faced hornets live in nests that they create from paper materials. They like to form these high above the ground, from places such as trees, utility poles, shrubs, overhangs, houses, and sheds. The nests can be as large as 14 inches in diameter and 24 inches long.