Bald-faced hornet (paper wasp relative)

Woodlands, gardens, eaves, and building cavities across much of North America. Nests are enclosed, papery structures attached to branches or sheltered structures.

Adults consume nectar and other sugary liquids. They capture and chew caterpillars and other insects to feed developing larvae.

Social, defensive wasps living in annual colonies; only newly mated queens overwinter. They may aggressively defend nests, especially when disturbed.

Stings can be painful and may cause severe allergic reactions; avoid disturbing nearby nests. They benefit gardens and forests by controlling insect pests and pollinating flowers.