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Pest Library · Stinging insectsBald-Faced Hornets Identification Guide
How to identify bald-faced hornets and their large grey paper nests in trees and under eaves.
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How to identify
What bald-faced hornets look like
Bald-faced hornets are large black wasps with white markings on the face and the tip of the abdomen.
They build large, football-shaped grey paper nests hanging in trees, shrubs or under eaves.
Signs you have bald-faced hornets
- A large grey paper nest in a tree, hedge or on a building
- Large black-and-white wasps patrolling the area
Are they dangerous?
They are very defensive of their nest and will sting repeatedly if it is disturbed, including by lawn mowers and trimmers.
How to prevent them
- Check trees and eaves for small nests in early summer
- Do not try to knock down a large nest
- Call for treatment if the nest is near doors, paths or play areas
Quick facts
Scientific nameDolichovespula maculata
Size15–20 mm
ColourBlack with white face markings
Most activeSummer
Found inTrees, shrubs, eaves, sheds
Risk levelHigh (defensive)
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