Size and Appearance:
Large, black and white, heavy-bodied wasps about 3/4 inches long with black and white pattern on face with 2 angled stripes on upper body towards head and on last abdominal segment.

Commonly Found:
Around nesting sites on ground level shrubs and vines to over 66 ft or higher in trees, on overhangs, utility poles, houses, sheds, or other structures in exposed locations.

Nest can be an impressive with sizes up to 14" in diameter and over 24" in length. Often nests located in vegetation are not discovered until the leaves fall in the autumn. Nests are not reused.

Diet:
Usually scavenge around picnics, trash cans, and humming bird feeders to capture insects (including other hornets and yellow jackets).

Important Facts:
Bald-faced hornets are generally more docile, but can become aggressive and sting invaders when their nest is disturbed or threatened. Unlike bees, they have a smooth stinger and can sting repeatedly.

Their venom may elicit a very painful sting. If stung, cool the area with ice.

Remember that insect stings can elicit a life-threatening, allergic reaction in some individuals. If you are stung and start experiencing difficulty breathing, immediate swelling of tongue or a constricted feeling in your face or throat, Call 911 or go the closest hospital emergency department.

You should never attempt any control measures if you have a known allergy to insect stings.

Nests are constructed of a paper-like martial formed from chewed wood. The nests are often described as "football shaped and can house several hundred to over 600 hornets.

Is actually a larger yellow jacket and not a true hornet.