Pest Library Wasps Bald-Faced Hornet

Bald-Faced Hornet

Dolichovespula maculata

Bald-faced hornets are relatives of yellowjackets. They aren’t considered true hornets. The “bald-faced” part of their name comes from the distinctive white markings on their heads.

Image by Judy Gallagher, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

About this species

Bald-faced hornets are highly aggressive and will sting multiple times when their nests are disturbed. They can also spray venom at intruders’ eyes, causing temporary blindness.

Image by Ryan Hodnett, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nest appearance

They build large, gray, paper-like nests shaped like an upside-down teardrop, often hanging from high places like trees, eaves, or poles.

Identification

Size:

1/2—5/8 inch long (12—14 mm)

Color:

Black and white

Image by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Key ID Features:

A smooth, stout body with a short waist and pointed lower abdomen covered in ivory-white markings.
White markings on the face and mandibles.
2 slanted white stripes on the thorax.
3 white stripes on the last 3 abdominal segments.
Translucent, smoky-colored wings.
6 black legs with white markings