About Bald-faced Hornet
The bald-faced hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) is a large wasp measuring 15–20 mm, distinguished from typical yellow jackets by its white and black (not yellow and black) coloration. It constructs large enclosed papery aerial nests — sometimes basketball-sized — hung in trees, shrubs, and on building eaves, housing up to 700 workers at peak season. It is exceptionally defensive of its nest and will sting repeatedly with little provocation nearby. Despite its fearsome reputation, it is an effective predator of flies and other pest insects when encountered away from the nest. Nests are abandoned after the first hard frost and are not reused.
Geographic Distribution
This insect is found across Africa, with notable populations in Egypt and surrounding regions.
Management
If you suspect a Bald-faced Hornet problem, consult our recommended exterminator services or browse our full pest species database for related species and control guidance.