Bald-Faced Hornet
Dolichovespula maculata · Stinging Insect
Dolichovespula maculata
Stinging Insect
3/4 to 1 inch
Black with ivory-white face and white markings
Workers 10 to 22 days, queens 1 year
About the Bald-Faced Hornet
The bald-faced hornet is actually a large yellow jacket, not a true hornet. Despite the name, these wasps build the distinctive gray football-shaped paper nests seen hanging from tree branches, eaves, and sheds throughout Michigan. Mature nests contain 400 to 700 workers and are extremely defensive.
Habits & Behavior
Bald-faced hornets build enclosed paper nests typically 8 to 14 inches in diameter attached to tree branches, shed eaves, house eaves, or tall shrubs. Workers hunt flies, caterpillars, and other insects. They defend the nest aggressively at a range of 10 to 20 feet. Unlike paper wasps, bald-faced hornets can spray venom into an attacker's eyes.
Signs of a Bald-Faced Hornet Infestation
Large gray football-shaped paper nest (8 to 14 inches) in a tree or under an eave
Black wasps with bright white faces flying to and from a single nest entrance
Aggressive response when mowing, trimming shrubs, or approaching nest
Wasps chasing pets or people 10 to 20 feet from nest
Bald-Faced Hornet Pressure in Michigan
Bald-faced hornet activity peaks July through September throughout Michigan. Lakefront properties, wooded luxury subdivisions, and rural properties see the highest nest density. Waterfront communities along Lake St. Clair, the Huron River, and the chain of lakes in Oakland and Livingston counties have persistent bald-faced hornet populations.
How BTR Treats Bald-Faced Hornet Infestations
BTR uses professional aerosol and dust combinations applied at dusk from a distance while wearing full protective equipment. Tree-hung nests are treated, then the nest is cut down and removed. Wall void and shed nests require direct dust injection. Same-day emergency service. 30-day warranty.
Prevention Tips
Inspect tree branches, shed eaves, and house eaves in June for early-stage nests (softball size). Remove small nests before they reach football size. Keep wooded areas trimmed. Avoid disturbing dense shrubs during peak season without inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bald-Faced Hornets
Are bald-faced hornets dangerous?
Yes. Bald-faced hornets are among the most defensive stinging insects in Michigan. They attack in swarms when the nest is disturbed and can chase for 20 feet or more. They can spray venom into an attacker's face and eyes. People with insect sting allergies face severe risk.
Can I leave a bald-faced hornet nest alone?
Only if the nest is far from human activity (high tree branch, far end of property, 40+ feet from entry doors and play areas). Nests within 20 feet of walkways, patios, entry doors, gardens, or mow paths should be professionally removed.
Is a bald-faced hornet really a hornet?
No. Despite the common name, bald-faced hornets are a large species of yellow jacket (genus Dolichovespula). True hornets in North America are limited to the European hornet (Vespa crabro). Bald-faced hornets behave and nest similarly to other yellow jackets.
Do bald-faced hornet nests get reused?
No. Abandoned bald-faced hornet nests are never reused. Queens emerge in spring to build new nests. Empty nests can be safely removed in winter once all wasps have died.
How much does BTR charge for bald-faced hornet removal?
Bald-faced hornet removal starts at $125 for accessible ground-level or first-story nests. Higher, tree-hung, or multi-story nests may cost more depending on access. Call (734) 338-1828 for a free quote.
Bald-Faced Hornet Problem? BTR Can Help Today
Free inspection. Licensed Michigan exterminators. 90-day warranty on most services.