Bald-faced Hornet vs European Paper Wasp
What built the nest under my eave?
The quick tell
The nest tells you instantly. A closed gray "paper football" hanging in a tree or on a wall belongs to Bald-faced Hornets. An open umbrella of exposed hexagon cells on a stalk belongs to paper wasps. The insects match: hornets are black with white faces, paper wasps yellow-and-black with orange antennae and long trailing legs.
Field marks, side by side
| Bald-faced Hornet | European Paper Wasp | |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Jet black with bold white face and tail markings | Yellow and black, orange-tipped antennae |
| Nest | Enclosed gray paper globe, entrance at the bottom | Open comb like an upside-down umbrella |
| Build | Stocky and thick-waisted | Slender with a pinched waist; legs dangle in flight |
| Temperament | Fiercely defends the nest zone | Tolerant unless the comb itself is threatened |
Still not sure which one you found?
Point Huck at it. One photo identifies it on the spot - and adds it to your collection.
Get Huck - freeCommon questions
Should I remove a paper wasp nest?
If it is away from doors and play areas, consider leaving it - paper wasps are useful caterpillar predators and colonies die each winter. Nests over doorways or railings are worth removing early in spring while they are small.
Is a Bald-faced Hornet actually a hornet?
Technically no - it is a large aerial yellowjacket. The "hornet" name stuck because of its size and attitude. Either way, treat the football nest with respect; colonies can hold hundreds of workers by late summer.