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bald faced hornet against a white background - Keep bald faced hornets away from your home with City Termite & Pest Control in Malvern, AR

Bald-Faced Hornet

Actual Size: 12 to15 mm

Characteristics: Distinctly black with unique white patterns on its face, resembling a mask

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Habitat: These hornets build their homes out of chewed wood pulp, creating large gray paper nests usually positioned at least three feet above the ground. Preferred locations include trees, building sides, and other elevated structures.

Habits:

  • Most active during the late summer.
  • Colonies can range from 100 to 400 members, all working cohesively.
  • Notorious for their defensive nature, they are more aggressive than many other stinging insects and will not hesitate to use their stinger when threatened.


Bald-Faced Hornets in Central Arkansas

The bald-faced hornet, a close relative of the yellowjacket, is easily recognizable by its striking white facial markings. Although primarily a beneficial wasp, its tendency to build nests near human habitats poses a risk. These hornets are larger than most and exhibit strong protective behavior towards their nests. They form populous colonies that can include thousands of hornets, significantly increasing the risk of stings in areas where humans frequent.

Bald-Faced Hornet Habitat

Bald-faced hornets typically construct their expansive, egg-shaped nests in spring and early summer. These nests can grow quite large, some reaching up to 24 inches in length and 30 inches in diameter. Common construction sites include trees, under building eaves, light fixtures, and even in children’s playhouses, creating potential risks in areas frequented by families.

Bald-Faced Hornet Behavior, Threats, or Dangers

The sting of a bald-faced hornet contains venom that can cause significant pain and swelling for up to 24 hours. For individuals with bee sting allergies, reactions can be severe and similar to those caused by bee stings. As temperatures drop and food becomes scarce in the autumn, these hornets often venture closer to human habitats in search of warmth and food, increasing the likelihood of encounters. They are attracted to open garbage, outdoor foods, and ripe fruits, making them more visible during this season. Given their aggressive nature and the potential dangers associated with their stings, it’s crucial to manage bald-faced hornet populations, especially when nests are located close to human activities.

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.