Bald-Faced Hornets

What do bald-faced hornets look like?

Bald-faced hornets have mostly black bodies with distinctive white markings on their faces and heads. These wasps have slender, elongated bodies that typically grow over half an inch long. Like other wasps, they have six legs, antennae, and two wings.

Are bald-faced hornets really hornets?

Despite the name, bald-faced hornets are not true hornets. They’re actually a type of wasp closely related to yellow jackets. Their large size and aggressive behavior have earned them the "hornet" nickname, but scientifically, they fall under the wasp category.

What do bald-faced hornets eat?

Bald-faced hornets feed on a variety of sweet and protein-rich foods. They consume nectar and honeydew from plants and soft-bodied insects like caterpillars. They’ll also scavenge for meat or other sources of protein when available.

Are bald-faced hornets dangerous?

Yes, bald-faced hornets can be dangerous. Unlike many stinging insects that typically sting only when provoked, these pests are known for their aggressive nature and will defend their nest without hesitation. They can sting multiple times, making any encounter potentially painful and hazardous.

If you're not allergic to their sting, you may experience pain and swelling that usually subsides in a few days. However, for those with stinging insect allergies, a bald-faced hornet sting can trigger a serious reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

How do bald-faced hornets get into homes?

Bald-faced hornets typically build their nests outdoors, at least three feet off the ground. Their paper-like nests often hang from eaves, soffits, tree branches, utility poles, or sheds.

However, if they find a gap or opening in your home's exterior, they may nest in attics or wall voids. Lone hornets may also fly into your home through open doors or windows while foraging.

What are the signs of a bald-faced hornet infestation?

The most obvious sign is seeing bald-faced hornets flying around your property. You may also spot their nest, which can become quite large depending on the colony's size. These nests have layered, paper-like walls and a single entrance hole, usually at the bottom.

What’s the best way to eliminate bald-faced hornets?

If you discover bald-faced hornets or a nest on your property, contact Big Time Pest Control right away. These wasps are highly aggressive, and removing them is not a safe DIY job. Proper removal requires professional tools, products, and training.

Big Time Pest Control offers expert service to eliminate bald-faced hornets safely. Our experienced technicians handle even the most challenging hornet issues using the proper equipment and safety gear.

How can I prevent a bald-faced hornet infestation?

When it comes to pests, prevention is always better than treatment. Keeping bald-faced hornets off your property helps protect your family and pets from painful stings.

To reduce your risk of an infestation:

• Keep outdoor garbage bins away from the house and ensure they have tight-fitting lids.
• Use yard pest control to reduce insect populations that hornets may prey on.
• Avoid planting flowers and ornamentals too close to your home, as they attract foraging hornets.
• Repair leaky faucets, fix drainage issues, and eliminate excess moisture around your home’s exterior.
• Seal gaps, cracks, or holes in your siding and install screens on windows and vents.
• Regularly inspect your property for early signs of nest development.

Combine these prevention tips with routine service from Big Time Pest Control for the best protection. Contact us today to schedule a home pest inspection and keep bald-faced hornets away from your home.

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