The Bald-Faced Hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) is actually a large species of yellow jacket. They are famous in Utah for their massive, "football-shaped" paper nests and their protective nature.
Nesting HabitsThey usually build their nests high up in trees, but they will occasionally attach them to the peaks or eaves of Utah homes.
The GuardThey keep "sentries" at the single opening of the nest. If they perceive a threat (like a ladder or a person getting too close), they will attack in a coordinated swarm.
The PursuitBald-faced hornets are known to chase threats for long distances. They can also "squirt" venom from their stinger into the eyes of predators, causing temporary blindness and intense pain.
Predatory NatureDespite their aggression toward humans, they are beneficial to gardens as they hunt large numbers of flies and other yellow jackets to feed their young.
I found a gray football in my tree in the winter. Is it dangerous?If it’s after a hard freeze, the hornets are dead. However, you should never approach one in the summer or fall without professional equipment.
Do they sting multiple times?Yes. Their stinger is smooth, allowing them to sting repeatedly without being injured themselves.
How many hornets are in one nest?A mature nest in late summer can contain anywhere from 400 to 700 hornets.
