Bald-Faced Hornets in Cleveland
The ivory-white facial markings are the reason behind the bald-faced hornet’s name. They greatly resemble the yellowjacket relative and are large flying insects known to defend their nests aggressively when provoked. While aggressive, they are a beneficial wasp to the ecosystem. Part of what makes them so dangerous is their tendency to live in such proximity to humans. They often nest in structural voids, attics, and cavities associated with landscaping features. Their colonies are also large with the potential to house thousands of individuals.
Bald-Faced Hornet Habitat
The large, paper nests built by bald-faced hornets are often found where people live, work, and play. Some of these nests can become quite large, with some growing two feet in length and 30 inches in diameter. During the spring months, the hornets will construct their nests by chewing on natural wood fibers. These nests will be placed in trees, around light structures of buildings, inside children’s playhouses, and under eaves. The nest will be the size of a football or basketball when it is finished.
Bald-Faced Hornet Behavior, Threats, or Dangers
The sting from a bald-faced hornet is venomous and can cause pain and swelling for around 24 hours. Allergic reactions to the bald-faced hornet’s stings can be similar to allergic reactions to bee stings. Bald-faced hornets can often be seen foraging for food in trash receptacles and upon food and drinks that are brought outside for consumption. They also eat ripe fruit on farms, in gardens, and vineyards. As the summer ends and cooler temperatures arrive, they are more likely to invade homes to search for food and warm shelter.
Should these hornets feel threatened, they will likely attack the threat aggressively. If a nest is located near human activity, a professional hornet control company can assist in stinging insect control nest removal.
