Facts & Information
What are Bald-Faced Hornets?
Bald-faced hornets are actually a type of wasp. They are primarily black with a white pattern on their face and white stripes on their thorax. Bald-faced hornets are ⅝ to 1 inch in length. They chew up plant materials and soil to make their paper, gray nests. Hornet nests can grow larger than a football in size and are commonly found in trees, chimneys, under eaves, and other structures.
Even though bald-faced hornets are beneficial by preying on other pests, they are also extremely aggressive and will attack anyone that comes too close to their nest. Colonies contain about 80 to 200 hornets with one fertile female queen that lays all the eggs. The queen is the only member of the colony that survives the winter.
Why Do I Have Them?
Bald-faced hornets are commonly found in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin. They will nest on your property because it offers them a safe place to live and feed. Nests are usually found in trees, bushes, and shrubbery. However, they also tend to build nests on houses, sheds, and decks. Yards with plenty of shade, gardens, and pools are more at risk for an infestation. Some bald-faced hornets may venture indoors through gaps in roofing or window frames, looking for shelter as the weather gets colder.
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Bald-faced hornets are protective of their nests and will attack and sting people and animals that invade their space. Hornets have smooth stingers, which allows them to sting multiple times. Accidentally stumbling across a hornet’s nest can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Bald-faced hornets will often attack in large numbers, increasing the likelihood of numerous stings and a severe allergic reaction.
Treatment & Control
How Do I Get Rid of Bald-Faced Hornets?
Getting rid of bald-faced hornets can be difficult because of their nesting habits and aggressiveness. Contact our pest specialists if you notice a hornet nest on your property. At Advanced Wildlife and Pest Control, our experienced technicians remove hundreds of hornet nests each year. We will safely remove the nests from your property and eliminate your stinging pest problem.
