Species Insects & ArthropodsBald-faced Hornet

Bald-faced Hornet

Dolichovespula maculata

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Bald-faced Hornet (Dolichovespula maculata)
Safety note: Warning: Known for its aggressive defense and potent sting.

The Bald-faced Hornet is actually a type of yellowjacket notable for its large, aerial paper nests. Distinguished by its black and white coloring, it plays a role in controlling pest populations.

Habitat
Commonly found in trees and shrubs, sometimes near human dwellings.
Diet
Preys on other insects and also consumes nectar and tree sap.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Bald-faced Hornet

The best time to see a Bald-faced Hornet is July–September, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 40,654 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Not certain it is a Bald-faced Hornet? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Often confused with

European Paper Wasp - see how to tell them apart

Recent Bald-faced Hornet sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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