Bald-faced hornets, also known as white-faced hornets, are a species of social wasp found in North America. While they may look intimidating with their large size and black and white coloring, there are many interesting facts about these fascinating insects that are worth exploring. With this in mind, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to share these interesting facts about bald faced hornets.
Do Hornets Get Revenge & Other Facts
1) Bald-faced hornets are not actually hornets. Despite their name, bald-faced hornets are not true hornets. They are actually a species of yellow jacket wasp. However, they are still closely related to hornets and share many similar characteristics.
2) They are aggressive defenders of their nests. Bald-faced hornets are fiercely protective of their nests and will aggressively defend them if they feel threatened. Their stingers are capable of delivering a painful sting, and they will sting repeatedly if provoked.
3) The queen is the largest member of the colony. As with many social insects, the queen bald-faced hornet is the largest member of the colony. She is responsible for laying all the eggs and controlling the behavior of the other members of the colony.
4) Bald-faced hornets build large, distinctive nests. Bald-faced hornets construct large, papery nests that are typically found hanging from trees or buildings. The nests can reach up to two feet in length and are usually shaped like a teardrop.
5) They are skilled architects. Bald-faced hornets are expert builders and use chewed-up wood pulp to construct their nests. They carefully shape the pulp into thin, papery layers that are strong enough to support the weight of the nest.
6) Bald-faced hornets are beneficial predators. While they may be a nuisance to humans, bald-faced hornets are actually beneficial predators that help control populations of other insects. They feed on a wide variety of insects, including flies, caterpillars, and other wasps.
7) They are most active during the day. Bald-faced hornets are diurnal insects, meaning they are most active during the day. They will often return to their nests at night to rest.
8) Bald-faced hornets do not reuse their nests. Unlike some other social insects, bald-faced hornets do not reuse their nests. After the colony has died off in the fall, the nest will be abandoned and will eventually break down over time.
9) They have a unique marking system. Bald-faced hornets have a distinctive black and white coloration that helps them communicate with other members of the colony. They use this coloration to recognize each other and to mark potential threats.
10) Bald-faced hornets are capable of flight speeds up to 25 miles per hour. Despite their large size, bald-faced hornets are incredibly agile fliers. They are capable of reaching speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest flying insects in the world.
11) Bald-faced hornets remember you. Bald-faced hornets can remember faces, and unfortunately there is no witness protection program to help disguise identity if a human inadvertently returns to the nest!
Stinging Insect Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
Bald-faced hornets are fascinating creatures that are worthy of study and admiration. While they may be intimidating to some, their unique behaviors and characteristics make them a valuable part of the natural world. Because of their aggressive behavior however, it is in your better interest to call in the professionals of A-Tex Pest Management to deal with any bald faced hornet infestation on your Austin, TX property and let us take care of the rest.
